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The Austrian squad has announced a major reshuffle for the 2026 Formula 1 season, moving up Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its main squad and handing 18-year-old Briton Arvid Lindblad his maiden F1 drive.

Lindblad, who has a Swedish father and a mother of Indian descent, is set to become the partner of New Zealander Liam Lawson at the second team VCARB.

These changes sees Japan's Yuki Tsunoda exiting the grid following a five-year stint.

A Star in the Making

Lindblad has been tagged 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", commending his "raw pace".

The team prepared a programme since last year to prepare Lindblad for his likely Grand Prix bow in 2026, featuring runs in F1 practice sessions at the British and Mexican races.

Lindblad stated 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 eager to collaborate with the team and step up. I can't wait to get started."

Lindblad has taken two races in F2 so far this season and is P6 in the standings ahead of the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

Hadjar's Big Break

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

He included an remarkable podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies 10th in the drivers' standings.

The team principal commented: "Hadjar has shown impressive growth 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 excel alongside Max."

The promoted driver called it "a fantastic step" and said he felt "prepared".

Tsunoda's Exit

To partner Lindblad at Racing Bulls, Red Bull have opted for Lawson over Tsunoda.

The New Zealander started 2025 with the main team but was demoted after just two races. However, he has settled back in at Racing Bulls with notable results, persuading Red Bull he merits another season.

Tsunoda, meanwhile, has been ejected after a disappointing season. His best result is a P6, and he has accumulated a small fraction of the team's constructors' championship.

The driver market moves confirm that there remains no place on the Red Bull programme for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 next season.