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The Austrian squad has confirmed significant changes for the 2026 F1 campaign, promoting French driver Isack Hadjar to its senior team and handing British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut Formula 1 seat.

The young driver, who is of Swedish and Indian heritage, will be team-mate to New Zealander Liam Lawson at the second team Racing Bulls.

This driver musical chairs results in Japan's Yuki Tsunoda losing his seat post a half-decade in F1.

The New British Hope

Lindblad has been identified as a rising talent by Red Bull since he was 12 years old.

Discussing the company's young driver programme, a key advisor noted last year that Lindblad "appears very talented", commending his "pure speed".

The team prepared a programme for some time to ready Lindblad for his likely F1 debut in 2026, including runs in Grand Prix practice at the British and Mexican races.

The rookie said it was a "dream come true", commenting: "Next season represents a big challenge, and I know there's plenty to absorb, but I'm prepared to work closely with the team and meet the challenge. I can't wait to get started."

Lindblad has taken two races in F2 so far this season and is P6 in the standings ahead of the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

A Major Opportunity for Hadjar

The Frenchman's debut season began in difficult fashion when he crashed on the formation lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. However, from that point, he has been one of the most impressive newcomers this season.

His performances featured an outstanding top-three result at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies in tenth place in the drivers' standings.

A senior team figure said: "Hadjar has shown impressive growth and proved to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he has the innate pace that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can succeed alongside Max."

Hadjar described it "an incredible opportunity" and said he felt "up for the challenge".

The Lawson Decision

For the seat at the junior team, Red Bull have opted for Lawson over Tsunoda.

The New Zealander started 2025 with the main team but was moved back after just two races. He has settled back in at Racing Bulls with notable results, persuading Red Bull he merits another season.

The Japanese driver, in contrast, loses his place after a difficult season. His highest finish is a P6, and he has scored a small fraction of the team's points total.

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.