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The Austrian squad has revealed a major reshuffle for the 2026 Formula 1 season, elevating French driver Isack Hadjar to its main squad and handing British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut Formula 1 seat.

The young driver, who comes from a mixed Swedish-Indian background, is set to become the partner of New Zealander Liam Lawson at the second team Racing Bulls.

These changes sees Japan's Yuki Tsunoda exiting the grid after five seasons.

The New British Hope

Lindblad has been tagged as a prodigy by Red Bull from the age of 12 years old.

Talking about the company's junior academy, a key advisor noted last year that Lindblad "looks really promising", highlighting his "pure speed".

Red Bull prepared a programme for some time to prepare Lindblad for his potential Grand Prix bow in 2026, featuring runs in F1 practice sessions at Silverstone and Mexico City.

The rookie said it was a "proud moment", commenting: "Next season represents a massive test, and I know there's plenty to absorb, but I'm ready to work closely with the team and rise to it. I am incredibly excited to get started."

Lindblad has taken a couple of victories in F2 so far this season and is P6 in the championship heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

A Major Opportunity for Hadjar

The Frenchman's debut season started in difficult fashion when he crashed on the formation lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. But, from that point, he has been one of the stand-out newcomers this season.

His performances featured an remarkable podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies 10th in the championship.

The team principal said: "Hadjar has shown impressive growth and demonstrated to be a fast adapter. Most importantly, he has the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe he can excel next to Max."

Hadjar described it "an awesome move" and said he felt "up for the challenge".

The Lawson Decision

To partner Lindblad at Racing Bulls, Red Bull have preferred Lawson instead of Tsunoda.

The New Zealander began the season with the main team but was demoted after just two races. However, he has found his form at Racing Bulls with notable results, persuading Red Bull he merits another season.

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

These announcements mean that there is also no spot on the Red Bull academy for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 next season.