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The Red Bull team has confirmed a new line-up for the 2026 Grand Prix year, moving up French driver Isack Hadjar to its main squad and awarding 18-year-old Briton Arvid Lindblad his debut F1 drive.

The young driver, who has a Swedish father and a mother of Indian descent, will be the partner of Kiwi driver Liam Lawson at the second team Racing Bulls.

These changes sees Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda losing his seat following a five-year stint.

The New British Hope

Lindblad has been identified as a prodigy by Red Bull since he was 12 years old.

Talking about the team's young driver programme, a senior Red Bull figure previously said that Lindblad "seems extremely gifted", commending his "pure speed".

Red Bull prepared a programme since last year to ready Lindblad for his likely Grand Prix bow in 2026, including runs in Grand Prix practice at the British and Mexican races.

The rookie said it was a "proud moment", adding: "2026 will be a massive test, and I know there's a lot to learn, but I'm ready to collaborate with the team and rise to it. I am incredibly excited to get started."

Lindblad has taken a couple of victories in F2 this year and is sixth in the standings heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

The Frenchman's Chance

Hadjar's F1 career began on a low note when he crashed on the formation lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. But, from that point, he has emerged as one of the most impressive newcomers this season.

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

A senior team figure said: "Isack has displayed great maturity and demonstrated to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he has the innate pace 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 started 2025 with the main team but was demoted after just two races. However, he has found his form at Racing Bulls with some strong performances, persuading Red Bull he merits more time.

Tsunoda, meanwhile, has been ejected 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 mean that there remains no spot on the Red Bull programme for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will remain in F2 next season.