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The Austrian squad has announced a new line-up for the 2026 Formula 1 season, moving up Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its senior team and awarding British teenager Arvid Lindblad his maiden F1 drive.

The young driver, who has a Swedish father and a mother of Indian descent, is set to become team-mate to New Zealander Liam Lawson at the junior outfit Racing Bulls.

These changes results in Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda losing his seat post a half-decade in F1.

The New British Hope

The youngster was marked out as a rising talent by Red Bull since he was 12 years old.

Discussing the company's junior academy, a senior Red Bull figure noted last year that Lindblad "seems extremely gifted", praising his "raw pace".

Red Bull has had a plan for some time to prepare Lindblad for his potential F1 debut in 2026, including appearances in F1 practice sessions at the British and Mexican races.

The rookie said it was a "huge honour", adding: "Next season represents a huge step, and I know there's much to understand, but I'm eager to collaborate with the team and step up. I am incredibly excited to get started."

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

A Major Opportunity for Hadjar

The Frenchman's debut season began in difficult fashion when he crashed during the warm-up lap of the first Australian Grand Prix. But, since then, he has emerged as one of the most impressive rookies this season.

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

The team principal commented: "Hadjar has shown impressive growth and demonstrated to be a quick learner. Crucially, he has the raw speed that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can thrive alongside Max."

The promoted driver called it "an incredible opportunity" and said he felt "prepared".

Tsunoda's Exit

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

Lawson began the season with the senior squad but was demoted after just two races. He has settled back in at the junior outfit with some strong performances, convincing Red Bull he merits more time.

Tsunoda, in contrast, has been ejected after a difficult season. His highest finish is a sixth place, and he has accumulated a minor percentage of the team's constructors' championship.

The driver market moves confirm that there remains no spot on the Red Bull academy for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 for 2026.