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Red Bull has announced a major reshuffle for the 2026 Grand Prix year, promoting French driver Isack Hadjar to its main squad and giving British teenager Arvid Lindblad his first F1 drive.

Lindblad, who comes from a mixed Swedish-Indian background, will be the partner of New Zealander Liam Lawson at the junior outfit Racing Bulls.

These changes results in Japan's Yuki Tsunoda being without a drive following a five-year stint.

The New British Hope

The youngster was tagged as a potential future star by Red Bull from the age of 12 years old.

Discussing the team's young driver programme, a key advisor previously said that Lindblad "appears very talented", highlighting his "pure speed".

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

The rookie said it was a "dream come true", adding: "Next season represents a big challenge, and I know there's plenty to absorb, but I'm ready to collaborate with the team and step up. I can't wait to get started."

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

The Frenchman's Chance

Hadjar's F1 career started on a low note when he crashed during the warm-up lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. But, from that point, he has emerged as one of the most impressive newcomers this season.

His performances featured an remarkable podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies in tenth place in the championship.

A senior team figure said: "Hadjar has displayed impressive growth and demonstrated to be a quick learner. Crucially, he has the innate pace that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can succeed alongside Max."

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

Tsunoda's Exit

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

The New Zealander started 2025 with the senior squad but was moved back early in the year. He has settled back in at the junior outfit with notable results, convincing Red Bull he merits another season.

The Japanese driver, in contrast, loses his place after a disappointing season. His highest finish is a P6, and he has scored a small fraction of the team's points total.

The driver market moves confirm that there remains no place on the Red Bull programme for Ireland's Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 next season.