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The Red Bull team has revealed significant changes for the 2026 Grand Prix year, promoting French driver Isack Hadjar to its main squad and giving 18-year-old Briton Arvid Lindblad his debut F1 drive.

The young driver, who has a Swedish father and a mother of Indian descent, will be the partner of Kiwi driver Liam Lawson at the sister squad Racing Bulls.

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

The New British Hope

The youngster was identified as a prodigy by Red Bull from the age of 12 years old.

Discussing the team's young driver programme, a key advisor previously said that Lindblad "seems extremely gifted", highlighting his "raw pace".

The team has had a plan for some time to prepare Lindblad for his potential F1 debut in 2026, featuring appearances in F1 practice sessions at Silverstone and Mexico City.

The rookie said it was a "proud moment", adding: "2026 will be a massive test, and I know there's a lot to learn, but I'm ready to collaborate with the team and meet the challenge. I can't wait to get started."

He has won two races in F2 so far this season and is P6 in the standings heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

Hadjar's Big Break

The Frenchman's debut season began on a low note when he crashed during the warm-up lap of the first Australian Grand Prix. But, from that point, he has emerged as one of the most impressive rookies this season.

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

The team principal commented: "Isack has shown 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 alongside Max."

The promoted driver called it "an incredible opportunity" and said he felt "up for the challenge".

Lawson Retains His Seat

For the seat at the junior team, Red Bull have chosen Lawson instead of Tsunoda.

Lawson started 2025 with the senior squad but was moved back early in the year. He has found his form at Racing Bulls with notable results, convincing Red Bull he deserves another season.

The Japanese driver, in contrast, has been ejected after a disappointing season. His highest finish is a P6, and he has accumulated a small fraction of the team's constructors' championship.

These announcements mean that there remains no spot on the Red Bull programme for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will remain in F2 for 2026.