Isack Hadjar will race for Red Bull in 2026 alongside Max Verstappen, replacing Yuki Tsunoda who becomes a reserve driver for the team.
Red Bull promoted Tsunoda in place of Liam Lawson after just two races of this season, but has now opted to make another change, with Hadjar impressing in his rookie campaign and earning the drive alongside Verstappen. Tsunoda will become a reserve as Racing Bulls will field another rookie in Arvid Lindblad, who will step up to race alongside Lawson.
“I’m so grateful to Oracle Red Bull Racing for giving me the opportunity and trust to race at the highest level of Formula 1,” Hadjar said. “After all the hard work I have put in since joining the junior team, it’s such a great reward. I’ve had many ups and downs throughout my career, and they kept believing and pushing me.
“This year with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls has been absolutely amazing, I’ve learnt a lot and secured a maiden podium. I feel I’m much better as a racing driver and a person, due to the team‘s support and preparation.
“I feel ready to go to Oracle Red Bull Racing and I am happy and proud they feel the same. It’s an awesome move, to work with the best and learn from Max is something I can’t wait for.”
Red Bull will run its fourth driver alongside Verstappen in just over 12 months when Hadjar makes the step up at the start of 2026, following Sergio Perez being replaced by Lawson after last year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Lindblad will get his first F1 opportunity alongside Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls. Mark Thompson/Getty Images
“Yuki has raced in Red Bull colors for seven years now and I have had the pleasure of working with him at both Red Bull teams,” Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies said. “Through his five seasons so far in Formula 1, Yuki has matured into a complete racer, good over a single lap on Saturday and capable of exceptional starts and excellent race craft on Sunday.
“Everyone in the sport would agree it is impossible not to like Yuki, his personality is infectious, and he has become a very special part of the Red Bull family. On behalf of everyone at Red Bull, I thank him for what he has contributed so far and we know he will provide invaluable support to the 2026 projects moving forwards.
“As for Isack, in his first F1 season, he has displayed great maturity and proved to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he has demonstrated the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe Isack can thrive alongside Max and produce the magic on track! 2026 will be a huge challenge for the team and for Red Bull Ford Powertrains, these are exciting times, and I am looking forward to seeing what we can do together.”
The promotion opened up a spot at Racing Bulls, and while a return for Tsunoda was considered, it is Lawson who retained his drive. His new teammate Lindblad has only completed four years in single seaters so far in his career, but the 18-year-old is on course for a top six finish after winning two races in Formula 2 this season.
“I’d like to thank everyone at VCARB for the opportunity,” Lindblad said. “Since I started this journey at five years old, it was always my goal to be in Formula 1 so it’s a proud moment to take this step.
“I’m extremely grateful to the Red Bull Junior Program and my personal team for their guidance, mentorship and belief; none of this would have been possible without their support. 2026 will be a big challenge and I know there’s a lot to learn, but I’m ready to work closely with the team and rise to it. I can’t wait to get started, it’s going to be an exciting year!”
