Isack Hadjar will race for Red Bull alongside Max Verstappen in 2026, replacing Yuki Tsunoda who will become the team’s reserve driver.
Red Bull promoted Tsunoda in place of Liam Lawson after just two races this season, but have 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 a new rookie in Arvid Lindblad, who will race alongside Lawson.
“I am so grateful to Oracle Red Bull Racing for giving me the opportunity and the confidence to race at the highest level of Formula 1,” said Hadjar. “After all the hard work I’ve done since joining the junior team, this is a great reward. I’ve had a lot of 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 learned a lot and secured a first podium finish. I feel like I am much better as a driver and as a person, thanks to the team’s support and preparation.
“I feel ready to move to Oracle Red Bull Racing and I’m happy and proud that they feel the same. It’s a great move, to work with the best and learn from Max is something I can’t wait for.”
Red Bull will field its fourth driver alongside Verstappen in just over 12 months when Hadjar steps up in early 2026, after Sergio Perez was replaced by Lawson following last year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Lindblad gets his first F1 chance alongside Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls. Mark Thompson/Getty Images
“Yuki has been racing in Red Bull colors for seven years now and I have had the pleasure of working with him at both Red Bull teams,” said Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies. “During his five seasons in Formula 1, Yuki has developed into a complete racer, good at one lap on Saturdays and capable of exceptional starts and excellent racing ability on Sundays.
“Everyone in the sport agrees that 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 be invaluable to the future projects of 2026.”
“As for Isack, he has shown great maturity in his first F1 season and proven to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he has demonstrated the raw speed that is the key 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 look forward to seeing what we can do together.”
The promotion opened up a spot at Racing Bulls, and although a return for Tsunoda was considered, it was Lawson who maintained his drive. His new team-mate Lindblad has only spent four years in single-seaters in his career so far, but the 18-year-old is on course for a top six finish after winning two races in Formula 2 this season.
“I want to thank everyone at VCARB for this opportunity,” said Lindblad. “Since I started this journey at the age of five, it has always been my goal to drive in Formula 1, so it is a proud moment to take this step.
“I am 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 is a lot to learn, but I am willing to work closely with the team and give it my all. I can’t wait to get started, it will be an exciting year!”
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