Red Bull Announces Major 2026 Driver Seats: Hadjar Promoted, Youngster Lindblad Gets Grand Prix Debut.

Isack Hadjar and Arvid Lindblad

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

The Austrian squad has revealed a new line-up for the 2026 Formula 1 season, moving up French driver Isack Hadjar to its main squad and handing British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut Formula 1 seat.

Lindblad, who comes from a mixed Swedish-Indian background, is set to become the partner of New Zealander Liam Lawson at the junior outfit VCARB.

This driver musical chairs sees Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda exiting the grid after five seasons.

The New British Hope

Arvid Lindblad in a Formula 1 car

The British teen participated in first practice for the Silverstone and Mexican Grands Prix this year.

The youngster was tagged as a rising talent by Red Bull since he was 12 years old.

Talking about the team's junior academy, a senior Red Bull figure noted last year that Lindblad "looks really promising", commending his "pure speed".

The team prepared a programme since last year to ready Lindblad for his likely F1 debut in 2026, featuring appearances in Grand Prix practice at the British and Mexican races.

The rookie said it was a "proud moment", 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 am incredibly excited to get started."

Lindblad has taken a couple of victories in F2 so far this season 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 started on a low note when he spun out during the warm-up lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. However, since then, he has been one of the stand-out rookies of the year.

His performances included an remarkable top-three result at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies 10th in the drivers' standings.

The team principal said: "Isack has displayed great maturity and demonstrated to be a fast adapter. Most importantly, he has the innate pace that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can succeed next to Max."

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

Lawson Retains His Seat

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

The New Zealander began the season with the main team but was moved back after just two races. He has settled back in at Racing Bulls with some strong performances, convincing Red Bull he merits more time.

The Japanese driver, meanwhile, has been ejected after a disappointing season. His highest finish is a P6, and he has scored a small fraction of the team's constructors' championship.

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

Jordan Bartlett
Jordan Bartlett

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