Red Bull Announces Substantial 2026 Driver Line-Up: Hadjar Promoted, 18-Year-Old Lindblad Gets Formula 1 Seat.

The Red Bull team has revealed a major reshuffle for the 2026 F1 campaign, elevating French driver Isack Hadjar to its A-team and awarding 18-year-old Briton Arvid Lindblad his maiden Formula 1 seat.

Lindblad, who is of Swedish and Indian heritage, will be team-mate to Kiwi driver Liam Lawson at the second team VCARB.

These changes means Japan's Yuki Tsunoda being without a drive post a half-decade in F1.

The New British Hope

Lindblad has been 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 "looks really promising", highlighting his "pure speed".

The team has been working since last year to prepare Lindblad for his potential F1 debut in 2026, including appearances in F1 practice sessions at Silverstone and Mexico City.

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

Lindblad has taken a couple of victories in F2 this year and is sixth in the championship heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

Hadjar's Big Break

Hadjar's F1 career began in difficult fashion when he spun out on the formation lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. But, from that point, he has emerged as one of the stand-out rookies this season.

He included an outstanding podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies 10th in the championship.

The team principal commented: "Hadjar has displayed great maturity and proved to be a fast adapter. Most importantly, he has the raw speed that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can thrive next to Max."

Hadjar described it "a fantastic step" and said he felt "ready".

Tsunoda's Exit

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

Lawson started 2025 with the senior squad but was demoted after just two races. However, he has settled back in at Racing Bulls with some strong performances, persuading Red Bull he merits more time.

Tsunoda, meanwhile, has been ejected after a difficult season. His best result is a sixth place, and he has accumulated a small fraction of the team's points total.

These announcements confirm that there is also no spot on the Red Bull academy for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 next season.