Red Bull Announces Major 2026 Driver Roster: Hadjar Promoted, 18-Year-Old Lindblad Secures Formula 1 Seat.

Red Bull has confirmed a major reshuffle for the 2026 F1 campaign, promoting French driver Isack Hadjar to its main squad and handing British teenager Arvid Lindblad his first Formula 1 seat.

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

This driver musical chairs means Japan's Yuki Tsunoda losing his seat after five seasons.

Who is Arvid Lindblad?

The youngster was marked out as a prodigy by Red Bull since he was 12 years old.

Regarding the company's junior academy, a key advisor previously said that Lindblad "seems extremely gifted", highlighting his "pure speed".

Red Bull has had a plan since last year to prepare Lindblad for his potential F1 debut in 2026, featuring appearances in Grand Prix practice at the British and Mexican races.

Lindblad stated it was a "proud moment", adding: "2026 will be a huge step, and I know there's plenty to absorb, but I'm eager 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 so far this season and is P6 in the standings heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

A Major Opportunity for Hadjar

The Frenchman's debut season began on a low note when he crashed on the formation lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. But, from that point, he has emerged as one of the stand-out newcomers this season.

His performances featured an excellent podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies 10th in the drivers' standings.

The team principal commented: "Hadjar has shown impressive growth and demonstrated to be a fast adapter. Crucially, he has the innate pace that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can thrive alongside Max."

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

Tsunoda's Exit

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

Lawson started 2025 with the main team but was demoted early in the year. However, he has found his form at Racing Bulls with notable results, persuading Red Bull he deserves another season.

The Japanese driver, in contrast, has been ejected after a difficult season. His best result is a sixth place, and he has scored a minor percentage of the team's points total.

These announcements confirm that there is also no place on the Red Bull programme for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 for 2026.