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Red Bull has revealed a major reshuffle for the 2026 Formula 1 season, elevating French driver Isack Hadjar to its main squad and giving British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut Formula 1 seat.

The young driver, who comes from a mixed Swedish-Indian background, is set to become the partner of Kiwi driver Liam Lawson at the second team Racing Bulls.

These changes means Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda being without a drive following a five-year stint.

A Star in the Making

Lindblad has been identified as a prodigy by Red Bull from the age of 12 years old.

Regarding the company's junior academy, a senior Red Bull figure previously said that Lindblad "appears very talented", commending his "natural quickness".

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

The rookie said it was a "huge honour", adding: "2026 will be a massive test, and I know there's a lot to learn, but I'm prepared to collaborate with the team and step up. I can't wait to get started."

He has won a couple of victories in F2 this year and is P6 in the championship heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

The Frenchman's Chance

Hadjar's F1 career began in difficult fashion when he crashed on the formation lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. But, since then, he has been one of the stand-out rookies this season.

He featured an remarkable podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he sits 10th in the championship.

The team principal commented: "Hadjar has displayed impressive growth and proved to be a fast adapter. Crucially, he has the innate pace that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe he can excel next to Max."

The promoted driver called it "a fantastic step" and said he felt "ready".

Lawson Retains His Seat

To partner Lindblad at Racing Bulls, Red Bull have chosen Lawson instead of Tsunoda.

Lawson started 2025 with the senior squad but was demoted after just two races. However, he has settled back in at the junior outfit with some strong performances, persuading Red Bull he merits another season.

The Japanese driver, in contrast, 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.

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