Isack Hadjar (left) started his career in Australia currently sitting 10th in the standings. Arvid Lindblad (right) is sixth in the Formula 2 standings.
Red Bull has revealed significant changes for the 2026 F1 campaign, moving up Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its senior team and awarding 18-year-old Briton Arvid Lindblad his maiden F1 drive.
The young driver, who comes from a mixed Swedish-Indian background, is set to become the partner of Kiwi driver Liam Lawson at the second team VCARB.
These changes sees Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda being without a drive after five seasons.
Who is Arvid Lindblad?
The British teen took part in first practice for the British and Mexico City Grands Prix this year.
The youngster was tagged as a prodigy by Red Bull from the age of 12 years old.
Talking about the team's junior academy, a senior Red Bull figure previously said that Lindblad "looks really promising", commending his "pure speed".
Red Bull has been working for some time to prepare Lindblad for his potential F1 debut in 2026, including runs in Grand Prix practice at the British and Mexican races.
Lindblad stated it was a "dream come true", adding: "2026 will be a big challenge, 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 a couple of victories in F2 so far this season and is sixth in the championship ahead of the final round in Abu Dhabi.
Hadjar's Big Break
Isack Hadjar enjoys his first podium in F1, secured at the Zandvoort race this season.
The Frenchman's debut season began on a low note when he spun out 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 remarkable top-three result at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies in tenth place in the championship.
A senior team figure commented: "Isack has shown impressive growth and proved to be a fast adapter. Crucially, he has the raw speed that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can excel alongside Max."
Hadjar described it "a fantastic step" and said he felt "up for the challenge".
Lawson Retains His Seat
To partner Lindblad at Racing Bulls, Red Bull have preferred Lawson instead of Tsunoda.
Lawson began the season with the main team but was moved back early in the year. However, he has found his form at Racing Bulls with notable results, persuading Red Bull he merits more time.
Tsunoda, meanwhile, loses his place after a disappointing season. His best result is a sixth place, and he has scored a small fraction of the team's constructors' championship.
The driver market moves confirm that there remains no spot on the Red Bull academy for Ireland's Alex Dunne, who will remain in F2 for 2026.
