Red Bull Reveals Major 2026 Driver Roster: Hadjar Promoted, 18-Year-Old Arvid Lindblad Earns Grand Prix Debut.
French driver Hadjar (left) made his debut at the season opener currently sitting tenth in the standings. British teen Lindblad (right) holds sixth place in the Formula 2 standings.
The Red Bull team has announced a major reshuffle for the 2026 Formula 1 season, elevating French driver 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 team-mate to New Zealander Liam Lawson at the junior outfit Racing Bulls.
These changes sees Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda being without a drive post a half-decade in F1.
A Star in the Making
Arvid Lindblad drove first practice for the British and Mexico City Grands Prix in the current season.
The youngster was identified as a rising talent 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", highlighting his "pure speed".
Red Bull has had a plan since last year to ready Lindblad for his potential Grand Prix bow in 2026, including runs in Grand Prix practice at Silverstone and Mexico City.
Lindblad stated it was a "proud moment", adding: "2026 will be a big challenge, and I know there's plenty to absorb, but I'm ready 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 sixth in the championship ahead of the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
Hadjar's Big Break
Isack Hadjar enjoys his first podium in F1, secured at the Dutch Grand Prix this season.
The Frenchman's debut season started in difficult fashion when he crashed on the formation lap of the first Australian Grand Prix. However, since then, he has been one of the most impressive newcomers this season.
He included an outstanding podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he sits in tenth place in the championship.
The team principal commented: "Hadjar has displayed great maturity and demonstrated to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he has the raw speed that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can succeed alongside Max."
The promoted driver called it "a fantastic step" and said he felt "prepared".
Tsunoda's Exit
For the seat at Racing Bulls, Red Bull have chosen Lawson over Tsunoda.
The New Zealander began the season with the main team but was demoted 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 highest finish 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 spot on the Red Bull academy for Ireland's Alex Dunne, who will remain in F2 next season.