🔗 Share this article

The Austrian squad has confirmed significant changes for the 2026 Grand Prix year, promoting French driver Isack Hadjar to its main squad and giving British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut F1 drive.

Lindblad, who comes from a mixed Swedish-Indian background, will be team-mate to New Zealander Liam Lawson at the junior outfit Racing Bulls.

These changes means Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda exiting the grid after five seasons.

The New British Hope

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

Discussing the team's junior academy, a key advisor noted last year that Lindblad "appears very talented", praising his "natural quickness".

Red Bull has been working since last year to ready Lindblad for his potential Grand Prix bow in 2026, featuring appearances in F1 practice sessions at the British and Mexican races.

Lindblad stated it was a "proud moment", adding: "Next season represents a huge step, and I know there's much to understand, but I'm prepared to work closely with the team and step up. I can't wait to get started."

He has won a couple of victories in F2 so far this season and is sixth in the standings heading into the final round in Abu Dhabi.

A Major Opportunity for Hadjar

The Frenchman's debut season began on a low note when he crashed on the formation lap of the first Australian Grand Prix. But, since then, he has emerged as one of the most impressive rookies of the year.

He included an outstanding top-three result at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he sits in tenth place in the championship.

The team principal said: "Hadjar has shown great maturity and demonstrated to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he has the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe he can excel alongside Max."

Hadjar described it "an awesome move" and said he felt "up for the challenge".

The Lawson Decision

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

The New Zealander started 2025 with the main team but was moved back after just two races. However, he has settled back in at the junior outfit with notable results, convincing Red Bull he merits more time.

The Japanese driver, meanwhile, has been ejected after a disappointing season. His highest finish is a sixth place, and he has accumulated a minor percentage of the team's points total.

These announcements mean that there is also no spot on the Red Bull programme for Ireland's Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 for 2026.