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Red Bull has announced significant changes for the 2026 Formula 1 season, moving up French driver Isack Hadjar to its senior team and handing British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut F1 drive.

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

This reshuffling results in Japan's Yuki Tsunoda exiting the grid following a five-year stint.

The New British Hope

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

Regarding the team's junior academy, a senior Red Bull figure previously said that Lindblad "appears very talented", praising his "pure speed".

The team prepared a programme for some time to prepare Lindblad for his potential F1 debut in 2026, including appearances in Grand Prix practice at the British and Mexican races.

The rookie said it was a "proud moment", commenting: "2026 will be a massive test, and I know there's much to understand, but I'm prepared to work closely with the team and meet the challenge. I am incredibly excited to get started."

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

Hadjar's Big Break

Hadjar's F1 career started in difficult fashion when he spun out on the formation lap of the first Australian Grand Prix. But, since then, he has been one of the most impressive newcomers this season.

He included an excellent podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he sits in tenth place in the drivers' standings.

A senior team figure commented: "Isack has displayed great maturity and proved to be a fast adapter. Most importantly, he has the innate pace that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe he can thrive next to Max."

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

Tsunoda's Exit

To partner Lindblad at the junior team, Red Bull have opted for Lawson over Tsunoda.

The New Zealander started 2025 with the senior squad but was demoted after just two races. He has found his form at Racing Bulls with notable results, convincing Red Bull he deserves more time.

Tsunoda, in contrast, loses his place after a disappointing season. His highest finish is a sixth place, and he has scored a minor percentage of the team's constructors' championship.

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