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Red Bull has confirmed a major reshuffle for the 2026 Formula 1 season, promoting French driver Isack Hadjar to its A-team and handing 18-year-old Briton Arvid Lindblad his maiden Formula 1 seat.

The young driver, who is of Swedish and Indian heritage, will be the partner of New Zealander Liam Lawson at the sister squad Racing Bulls.

This driver musical chairs results in Japan's Yuki Tsunoda being without a drive following a five-year stint.

Who is Arvid Lindblad?

The youngster was tagged as a rising talent by Red Bull since he was 12 years old.

Discussing the company's young driver programme, a senior Red Bull figure noted last year that Lindblad "seems extremely gifted", commending his "pure speed".

The team has had a plan for some time to ready Lindblad for his potential Grand Prix bow in 2026, including appearances in F1 practice sessions at the British and Mexican races.

The rookie said it was a "huge honour", commenting: "Next season represents a massive test, and I know there's plenty to absorb, but I'm prepared to work closely with the team and rise to it. I am incredibly excited to get started."

Lindblad has taken two races in F2 this year and is sixth in the standings ahead of the final round in Abu Dhabi.

A Major Opportunity for Hadjar

The Frenchman's debut season began 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 stand-out newcomers of the year.

He featured an remarkable podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he sits in tenth place in the drivers' standings.

A senior team figure commented: "Isack has shown great maturity and demonstrated to be a fast adapter. Crucially, he has the innate pace that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can thrive next to Max."

The promoted driver called it "an awesome move" and said he felt "up for the challenge".

Tsunoda's Exit

For the seat at Racing Bulls, Red Bull have chosen Lawson instead of Tsunoda.

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

The Japanese driver, meanwhile, has been ejected after a difficult season. His highest finish is a P6, and he has scored a minor percentage of the team's constructors' championship.

These announcements mean that there is also no place on the Red Bull academy for Ireland's Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 next season.