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Red Bull has announced significant changes for the 2026 Formula 1 season, elevating French driver Isack Hadjar to its senior team and giving British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut Formula 1 seat.

Lindblad, who comes from a mixed Swedish-Indian background, is set to become team-mate to New Zealander Liam Lawson at the second team Racing Bulls.

This driver musical chairs sees Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda losing his seat after five seasons.

Who is Arvid Lindblad?

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

Discussing the team's young driver programme, a senior Red Bull figure previously said that Lindblad "seems extremely gifted", highlighting his "pure speed".

The team has had a plan for some time to prepare Lindblad for his potential F1 debut in 2026, featuring runs in F1 practice sessions at Silverstone and Mexico City.

Lindblad stated it was a "proud moment", commenting: "Next season represents a massive test, and I know there's a lot to learn, but I'm prepared to collaborate with the team and step up. I can't wait to get started."

He has won a couple of victories in F2 so far this season and is sixth in the championship heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

A Major Opportunity for Hadjar

Hadjar's F1 career began in difficult fashion when he spun out during the warm-up lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. However, since then, he has emerged as one of the stand-out newcomers of the year.

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

A senior team figure commented: "Isack has displayed great maturity and proved 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 next to Max."

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

Lawson Retains His Seat

To partner Lindblad at the junior team, Red Bull have preferred Lawson instead of Tsunoda.

Lawson started 2025 with the senior squad but was moved back early in the year. He has settled back in at Racing Bulls with notable results, convincing Red Bull he merits another season.

The Japanese driver, meanwhile, has been ejected after a disappointing season. His highest finish is a P6, and he has scored a small fraction 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 continue in F2 for 2026.