French driver Hadjar (left) started his career at the season opener currently sitting tenth in the championship. British teen Lindblad (right) is sixth in the Formula 2 standings.
Red Bull has announced significant changes for the 2026 Formula 1 season, elevating Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its main squad and awarding British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut F1 drive.
Lindblad, who is of Swedish and Indian heritage, is set to become team-mate to Kiwi driver Liam Lawson at the second team VCARB.
This reshuffling sees Japan's Yuki Tsunoda being without a drive post a half-decade in F1.
A Star in the Making
Arvid Lindblad drove first practice for the Silverstone and Mexican Grands Prix this year.
The youngster was tagged as a potential future star by Red Bull since he was 12 years old.
Regarding the company's young driver programme, a senior Red Bull figure noted last year that Lindblad "appears very talented", commending his "pure speed".
The team prepared a programme for some time to ready Lindblad for his likely Grand Prix bow in 2026, including appearances in F1 practice sessions at Silverstone and Mexico City.
The rookie said it was a "dream come true", commenting: "Next season represents a big challenge, and I know there's a lot to learn, but I'm prepared to collaborate with the team and rise to it. I can't wait to get started."
He has won a couple of victories in F2 this year and is sixth in the standings ahead of the final round in Abu Dhabi.
A Major Opportunity for Hadjar
Isack Hadjar celebrates his maiden top-three finish in F1, achieved at the Dutch Grand Prix in August.
The Frenchman's debut season began in difficult fashion when he crashed during the warm-up lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. But, since then, he has been one of the stand-out newcomers of the year.
His performances included an remarkable podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies in tenth place in the drivers' standings.
A senior team figure commented: "Isack has shown 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 thrive next to Max."
Hadjar described it "an awesome move" and said he felt "prepared".
Tsunoda's Exit
For the seat at Racing Bulls, Red Bull have preferred Lawson over Tsunoda.
Lawson started 2025 with the main team but was moved back after just two races. He has found his form at the junior outfit with notable results, persuading Red Bull he merits another season.
The Japanese driver, in contrast, loses his place after a difficult season. His highest finish is a P6, and he has scored a minor percentage of the team's points total.
The driver market moves confirm that there is also no spot on the Red Bull programme for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 for 2026.
