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The Austrian squad has revealed significant changes for the 2026 Grand Prix year, elevating French driver Isack Hadjar to its senior team and giving British teenager Arvid Lindblad his maiden F1 drive.

Lindblad, who has a Swedish father and a mother of Indian descent, will be the partner of New Zealander Liam Lawson at the second team Racing Bulls.

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

The New British Hope

Lindblad has been identified as a potential future star by Red Bull from the age of 12 years old.

Talking about the company's junior academy, a key advisor noted last year that Lindblad "seems extremely gifted", highlighting his "natural quickness".

Red Bull has been working since last year to prepare Lindblad for his potential F1 debut in 2026, including appearances in Grand Prix practice at the British and Mexican races.

Lindblad stated it was a "huge honour", commenting: "2026 will be a big challenge, and I know there's plenty to absorb, but I'm prepared to work closely with the team and meet the challenge. I can't wait to get started."

He has won a couple of victories in F2 this year and is P6 in the championship ahead of the final round in Abu Dhabi.

A Major Opportunity for Hadjar

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 stand-out rookies of the year.

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

A senior team figure commented: "Hadjar has displayed great maturity and demonstrated to be a fast adapter. Crucially, he has the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe he can succeed alongside Max."

Hadjar described it "an awesome move" and said he felt "prepared".

Lawson Retains His Seat

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

Lawson began the season with the senior squad but was moved back after just two races. However, he has found his form at Racing Bulls with some strong performances, convincing Red Bull he merits another season.

The Japanese driver, in contrast, has been ejected after a disappointing season. His best result is a P6, and he has scored a minor percentage of the team's points total.

The driver market moves mean that there is also no place on the Red Bull academy for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 next season.