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Red Bull has announced a new line-up for the 2026 Formula 1 season, moving up Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its A-team and handing British teenager Arvid Lindblad his maiden Formula 1 seat.

The young driver, who is of Swedish and Indian heritage, is set to become the partner of New Zealander Liam Lawson at the junior outfit VCARB.

This reshuffling means Japan's Yuki Tsunoda losing his seat after five seasons.

A Star in the Making

The youngster was tagged as a rising talent by Red Bull from the age of 12 years old.

Talking about the team's young driver programme, a key advisor noted last year that Lindblad "seems extremely gifted", praising his "raw pace".

The team prepared a programme for some time to prepare Lindblad for his likely Grand Prix bow in 2026, including appearances in Grand Prix practice at the British and Mexican races.

The rookie said it was a "dream come true", commenting: "Next season represents a massive test, and I know there's plenty to absorb, but I'm eager to collaborate with the team and meet the challenge. I can't wait to get started."

He has won two races in F2 so far this season and is sixth in the standings ahead of the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

A Major Opportunity for Hadjar

The Frenchman's debut season started in difficult fashion when he crashed on the formation lap of the first Australian Grand Prix. However, from that point, he has been one of the stand-out newcomers this season.

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

The team principal said: "Hadjar has displayed impressive growth and demonstrated to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he has the raw speed that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can thrive next to Max."

Hadjar described it "an incredible opportunity" and said he felt "prepared".

Lawson Retains His Seat

To partner Lindblad at Racing Bulls, Red Bull have opted for Lawson instead of Tsunoda.

The New Zealander began the season with the main team but was moved back early in the year. He has settled back in at Racing Bulls with notable results, persuading Red Bull he merits another season.

Tsunoda, in contrast, has been ejected after a difficult season. His highest finish is a P6, and he has scored a small fraction of the team's constructors' championship.

The driver market moves mean that there is also no spot on the Red Bull academy for Ireland's Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 for 2026.