Red Bull Announces Substantial 2026 Driver Roster: Hadjar Steps Up, Teenager Lindblad Secures Formula 1 Seat.

The Austrian squad has revealed significant changes for the 2026 Formula 1 season, elevating French driver Isack Hadjar to its main squad and handing British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut F1 drive.

The young driver, who comes from a mixed Swedish-Indian background, is set to become the partner of New Zealander Liam Lawson at the sister squad VCARB.

This reshuffling results in Japan's Yuki Tsunoda exiting the grid following a five-year stint.

A Star in the Making

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

Talking about the company's junior academy, a key advisor noted last year that Lindblad "looks really promising", praising his "natural quickness".

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

Lindblad stated 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 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 P6 in the standings heading into the final round in Abu Dhabi.

Hadjar's Big Break

Hadjar's F1 career started on a low note when he crashed on the formation lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. But, since then, he has emerged as one of the most impressive newcomers of the year.

He featured an outstanding top-three result at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he sits 10th in the championship.

A senior team figure said: "Isack has shown impressive growth and demonstrated to be a fast adapter. Crucially, he has the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe he can succeed next to Max."

The promoted driver called it "an awesome move" and said he felt "prepared".

Lawson Retains His Seat

To partner Lindblad at the junior team, Red Bull have opted for Lawson over Tsunoda.

Lawson began the season with the senior squad but was moved back early in the year. However, he has settled back in at Racing Bulls with some strong performances, convincing Red Bull he deserves more time.

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

The driver market moves confirm that there is also no spot on the Red Bull programme for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 next season.