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The Austrian squad has announced significant changes for the 2026 F1 campaign, elevating French driver Isack Hadjar to its senior team and awarding 18-year-old Briton Arvid Lindblad his maiden Formula 1 seat.

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

This driver musical chairs sees Japan's Yuki Tsunoda losing his seat following a five-year stint.

Who is Arvid Lindblad?

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

Discussing the team's young driver programme, a key advisor noted last year that Lindblad "looks really promising", praising his "natural quickness".

Red Bull has had a plan for some time to prepare Lindblad for his likely Grand Prix bow in 2026, featuring appearances in F1 practice sessions at Silverstone and Mexico City.

Lindblad stated it was a "proud moment", commenting: "2026 will be a massive test, and I know there's a lot to learn, but I'm prepared to work closely with the team and rise to it. I can't wait to get started."

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

Hadjar's Big Break

The Frenchman's debut season 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 newcomers this season.

His performances included an remarkable top-three result at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he sits 10th in the championship.

A senior team figure commented: "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 succeed alongside Max."

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

Tsunoda's Exit

For the seat at Racing Bulls, Red Bull have preferred Lawson over Tsunoda.

Lawson began the season with the main team but was moved back early in the year. He has settled back in at Racing Bulls with notable results, persuading Red Bull he deserves more time.

The Japanese driver, in contrast, loses his place after a difficult season. His best result is a sixth place, and he has scored a minor percentage of the team's constructors' championship.

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