Red Bull Announces Major 2026 Driver Line-Up: Hadjar Promoted, Teenager Arvid Lindblad Secures Grand Prix Debut.

Isack Hadjar and Arvid Lindblad

French driver Hadjar (left) started his career at the season opener currently sitting 10th in the standings. British teen Lindblad (right) holds sixth place in the F2 championship.

Red Bull has announced a new line-up for the 2026 Formula 1 season, promoting Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its A-team and handing British teenager Arvid Lindblad his maiden F1 drive.

The young driver, who has a Swedish father and a mother of Indian descent, is set to become the partner of Kiwi driver Liam Lawson at the second team VCARB.

These changes sees Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda being without a drive after five seasons.

A Star in the Making

Arvid Lindblad in a Formula 1 car

Arvid Lindblad took part in FP1 for the Silverstone and Mexican Grands Prix this year.

The youngster was identified as a potential future star by Red Bull from the age of 12 years old.

Discussing the company's junior academy, a senior Red Bull figure noted last year that Lindblad "appears very talented", praising his "pure speed".

The team has had a plan for some time to ready Lindblad for his potential F1 debut in 2026, including appearances in F1 practice sessions at the British and Mexican races.

Lindblad stated it was a "huge honour", adding: "Next season represents a big challenge, and I know there's much to understand, but I'm eager to collaborate with the team and step up. I can't wait to get started."

Lindblad has taken two races in F2 this year and is P6 in the standings heading into the final round in Abu Dhabi.

Hadjar's Big Break

Isack Hadjar celebrating his podium

The French driver enjoys his maiden top-three finish in F1, secured at the Dutch Grand Prix this season.

The Frenchman's debut season began in difficult fashion when he crashed during the warm-up lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. However, from that point, he has emerged as one of the stand-out rookies of the year.

His performances featured an excellent podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies 10th in the drivers' standings.

A senior team figure commented: "Isack has shown impressive growth and proved to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he has the raw speed that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can thrive alongside Max."

The promoted driver called it "an incredible opportunity" and said he felt "prepared".

Tsunoda's Exit

To partner Lindblad at the junior team, Red Bull have chosen Lawson instead of Tsunoda.

The New Zealander began the season with the senior squad but was demoted early in the year. However, he has found his form at Racing Bulls with some strong performances, convincing Red Bull he merits more time.

Tsunoda, in contrast, has been ejected after a disappointing season. His best result is a P6, and he has scored a small fraction of the team's constructors' championship.

The driver market moves confirm that there remains no place on the Red Bull academy for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will remain in F2 for 2026.

Zachary Morgan
Zachary Morgan

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