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The Austrian squad has revealed significant changes for the 2026 F1 campaign, moving up Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its senior team and giving 18-year-old Briton Arvid Lindblad his maiden F1 drive.

Lindblad, who is of Swedish and Indian heritage, is set to become team-mate to Kiwi driver Liam Lawson at the junior outfit VCARB.

These changes sees Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda losing his seat following a five-year stint.

Who is Arvid Lindblad?

Lindblad has been tagged as a prodigy by Red Bull since he was 12 years old.

Talking about the team's young driver programme, a senior Red Bull figure noted last year that Lindblad "seems extremely gifted", highlighting his "natural quickness".

The team has had a plan since last year to ready Lindblad for his likely F1 debut in 2026, including appearances in Grand Prix practice at Silverstone and Mexico City.

The rookie said it was a "proud moment", commenting: "2026 will be a big challenge, and I know there's a lot to learn, but I'm prepared to collaborate with the team and meet the challenge. I can't wait to get started."

Lindblad has taken two races in F2 this year and is sixth in the championship ahead of the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

Hadjar's Big Break

The Frenchman's debut season started in difficult fashion when he spun out during the warm-up lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. But, from that point, he has emerged as one of the most impressive newcomers this season.

His performances included an excellent podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he sits 10th in the championship.

A senior team figure commented: "Isack has shown impressive growth and proved to be a fast adapter. Crucially, he has the innate pace that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe he can thrive next to Max."

Hadjar described it "a fantastic step" and said he felt "up for the challenge".

Tsunoda's Exit

For the seat at the junior team, Red Bull have opted for Lawson over Tsunoda.

The New Zealander started 2025 with the senior squad but was moved back after just two races. He has settled back in at the junior outfit with some strong performances, convincing Red Bull he merits another season.

Tsunoda, meanwhile, has been ejected after a difficult season. His highest finish is a sixth place, and he has scored a minor percentage of the team's points total.

These announcements mean that there remains no spot on the Red Bull programme for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will remain in F2 next season.