Hadjar steps up, Tsunoda loses his seat, Lindblad debuts and Lawson secures his future

Red Bull’s driver structure has been completely overhauled following an announcement that signals a major turning point heading into the 2026 Formula 1 era. With new technical regulations, revamped power units and Cadillac joining the grid as the eleventh team, the energy drink giant opted for a full internal reset.

The headline move sees Isack Hadjar promoted to Red Bull, lining up alongside Max Verstappen, while Arvid Lindblad will make his Formula 1 debut with Racing Bulls (VCARB) next to Liam Lawson, who secures his seat after coming out on top internally.

The reshuffle leaves Yuki Tsunoda without a full-time race seat for now. Despite a challenging 2025 season, the Japanese driver remains within the organization as a reserve driver for both teams.

Hadjar’s rapid rise to Verstappen’s side

With just one full F1 season under his belt, Hadjar delivered an impressive campaign, scoring points in ten Grands Prix and claiming a breakthrough podium at Zandvoort — performances that made him the clear favorite for promotion.

Hadjar reacted:

“I’m extremely grateful… this is an incredible opportunity, working with the best and learning from Max.”

Team boss Laurent Mekies highlighted his key strength:

“He has demonstrated the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport.”

Lindblad, Red Bull’s next long-term project

After standout performances in Formula 2 and strong Free Practice 1 outings with Red Bull at Silverstone and Mexico, Arvid Lindblad was the logical choice to step up to the sister team.

His rise has been so fast that several analysts have already drawn parallels with Verstappen’s early career. Lindblad said:

“Since I started this journey at five years old… being in Formula 1 is a moment of huge pride.”

Lawson comes out on top

In the battle for the final available seat, Liam Lawson prevailed thanks to greater overall consistency. Speaking to Sky Sports F1, VCARB engineers praised his ability to adapt under pressure.

Lawson added:

“I’m ready to work… it’s going to be an exciting year.”

Tsunoda stays within the Red Bull family

Although he loses his race seat, Tsunoda remains part of the Red Bull structure. Mekies paid tribute:

“Yuki’s personality is contagious… he has become a very special part of the Red Bull family.”

2026 context: a reset for Formula 1

With the 2026 grid now complete, new regulations, new power units and eleven teams on the grid, one of the most unpredictable seasons in years is expected.But before looking ahead, one final chapter remains:

The 2025 championship will be decided this weekend in Abu Dhabi.
Three drivers. One champion.