Red Bull Announces Substantial 2026 Driver Seats: Hadjar Steps Up, Teenager Lindblad Gets Formula 1 Seat.

The promoted rookies

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

Red Bull has revealed significant changes for the 2026 Formula 1 season, promoting Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its senior team and giving British teenager Arvid Lindblad his maiden Formula 1 seat.

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 junior outfit VCARB.

This reshuffling sees Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda being without a drive after five seasons.

The New British Hope

Arvid Lindblad in a Formula 1 car

Arvid Lindblad participated in first practice for the British and Mexico City Grands Prix this year.

Lindblad has been tagged as a rising talent by Red Bull from the age of 12 years old.

Discussing the company's junior academy, a key advisor previously said that Lindblad "seems extremely gifted", commending his "natural quickness".

Red Bull prepared a programme for some time to prepare Lindblad for his potential Grand Prix bow in 2026, including runs in F1 practice sessions at the British and Mexican races.

Lindblad stated it was a "huge honour", adding: "Next season represents a huge step, and I know there's plenty to absorb, but I'm eager to work closely with the team and step up. I can't wait to get started."

Lindblad has taken a couple of victories in F2 so far this season and is P6 in the standings ahead of the final round in Abu Dhabi.

Hadjar's Big Break

Hadjar on the rostrum

Isack Hadjar celebrates his first podium in F1, achieved at the Dutch Grand Prix in August.

The Frenchman's debut season began on a low note when he spun out during the warm-up lap of the first Australian Grand Prix. But, from that point, he has been one of the most impressive newcomers of the year.

He featured an remarkable top-three result at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he sits 10th in the championship.

The team principal said: "Isack has shown great maturity and proved to be a fast adapter. Crucially, he has the raw speed that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can excel alongside Max."

Hadjar described it "an awesome move" and said he felt "prepared".

The Lawson Decision

For the seat at Racing Bulls, Red Bull have opted for Lawson instead of Tsunoda.

Lawson began the season with the main team but was moved back early in the year. However, he has found his form at Racing Bulls with some strong performances, persuading Red Bull he merits more time.

The Japanese driver, meanwhile, loses his place after a difficult season. His best result is a sixth place, and he has scored a minor percentage of the team's constructors' championship.

The driver market moves mean that there is also no place on the Red Bull programme for Ireland's Alex Dunne, who will remain in F2 for 2026.

Margaret Patton
Margaret Patton

A tech journalist and business strategist with over a decade of experience covering digital transformation and startup ecosystems.