Isack Hadjar will replace Yuki Tsunoda as Max Verstappen’s Red Bull team-mate for the 2026 Formula One season, with rookie Arvid Lindblad called up to Racing Bulls.
Lindblad, an 18-year-old Briton, is currently sitting sixth in Formula Two with one round remaining, and will partner Kiwi driver Liam Lawson at the Red Bull B-team.
Hadjar has enjoyed a hugely impressive debut season in F1, tallying 51 points and one podium finish, and will become the latest driver to attempt to match Verstappen’s blistering pace in the second Red Bull.
Yuki Tsunoda served as the four-time world champions' team-mate in 2025 and was roundly outperformed, managing just 33 points to the Dutchman’s 396.
The Red Bull reshuffle leaves the Japanese driver without a race seat for 2026 - he will serve instead as Red Bull’s test and reserve driver.
“After all the hard work I have put in since joining the Junior Team, [this promotion is] such a great reward,” said Hadjar. “I’ve had many ups and downs throughout my career, and they kept believing and pushing me.
“This year with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls has been absolutely amazing, I’ve learnt a lot and secured a maiden podium. I feel I’m much better as a racing driver and a person, due to the Team‘s support and preparation.
“It’s an awesome move, to work with the best and learn from Max is something I can’t wait for.”
Come the dawn of the 2026 season, though, all eyes will be on Lindblad - the only rookie driver on the grid.
The Surrey-born driver is something of a prodigy. He began his racing career in karts at five years old, and this year became the youngest ever F2 race winner at 17 years and 243 days.
He was signed by Red Bull’s junior programme at 13 and shot through the junior formulae, also becoming the youngest ever winner in F3.
Similar to Mercedes starlet Kimi Antonelli, he has been granted special dispensation by the FIA to receive a super license before his 18th birthday.
He received his first taste of F1 machinery by completing a test at Imola in February and by participating in a free practice session ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix.
Speaking after his Racing Bulls drive was announced, he said: “I’d like to thank everyone at VCARB for the opportunity. Since I started this journey at five years old, it was always my goal to be in Formula One so it’s a proud moment to take this step.
“I’m extremely grateful to the Red Bull Junior Programme and my personal team for their guidance, mentorship and belief; none of this would have been possible without their support.
“(The 2026 season) will be a big challenge and I know there’s a lot to learn, but I’m ready to work closely with the team and rise to it.”
Verstappen will race at Abu Dhabi on Sunday as he looks to clinch his fifth consecutive drivers’ world championship.
© The Standard Ltd