RED BULL SHAKES UP F1 LINEUP FOR 2026

Red Bull Racing has confirmed a major shake-up for the 2026 season. French rookie Isack Hadjar will step up to partner four-time champion Max Verstappen, while 18-year-old Arvid Lindblad will join sister team Racing Bulls alongside Liam Lawson.

That move pushes Yuki Tsunoda out of a race seat, with the Japanese driver set to become reserve and test driver for the coming season.

Hadjar earned the promotion after a strong rookie season with Racing Bulls, scoring points in ten Grands Prix and claiming a maiden podium at the Dutch Grand Prix. His rapid rise fits Red Bull’s tradition of trusting young talent early and giving them a chance to shine at the top level.

For Lindblad, the jump to F1 comes after an impressive run through junior categories. The British-Swedish driver has won in Formula 3 and delivered solid performances in Formula 2, proving he has both the talent and maturity to handle the pressures of the top flight.

Tsunoda’s demotion marks the end of his stint as a race seat driver for now. Despite five seasons in F1, he struggled to match his teammates’ performances, prompting Red Bull to move forward with fresh talent while keeping him involved as a reserve.

The 2026 Red Bull line-up is a clear bet on youth and momentum. Hadjar will have the task of supporting Verstappen’s championship ambitions, and Lindblad will be under the spotlight from his first race. Fans can expect an exciting season with new faces challenging the established order and plenty of drama on the grid.

Image credit: Autosport