Red Bull Confirms 2026 F1 Lineup: Hadjar Joins Verstappen, Racing Bulls to Run Lawson and Lindblad

Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls have officially revealed their driver lineups for the 2026 Formula 1 season, ending weeks of speculation in the paddock. As announced today, Isack Hadjar will be promoted to the senior Red Bull team next year, partnering three-time world champion Max Verstappen. Racing Bulls, meanwhile, will field Liam Lawson alongside rookie Arvid Lindblad.

Hadjar’s promotion confirms the widely discussed scenario that had been circulating for months. The decision effectively brings Yuki Tsunoda’s Red Bull racing tenure to a close. Despite flashes of strong performance in 2025, Tsunoda struggled to deliver consistent results, finishing the season with just 33 points across 21 races—far below the team’s total of 426 points.

Hadjar, competing in his first full F1 season, has impressed Red Bull management not only with his results but also through his composed racecraft, assertiveness and ability to withstand pressure. His strong rebound after a costly mistake in Australia was viewed as clear evidence of his growth potential. Although partnering Verstappen is considered one of the toughest jobs on the grid, Hadjar’s psychological resilience played a crucial role in Red Bull’s decision.

With Hadjar moving up, the vacant Racing Bulls seat will be filled by Arvid Lindblad, who will contest his rookie Formula 1 season in 2026. Lindblad spent 2025 completing extensive testing, accelerating his adaptation to F1 machinery. His dominant Formula Regional Oceania campaign—featuring six wins and 370 points—combined with two victories and 107 points in Formula 2, solidified his readiness for the top category.

The team’s second seat remains with Liam Lawson, who reclaimed form after returning to Racing Bulls. Accumulating 38 points with consistent performances, Lawson positioned himself as the natural team leader for the 2026 campaign.

The decision regarding Tsunoda was influenced not only by performance metrics but also by the conclusion of the Red Bull–Honda partnership after Abu Dhabi. The Japanese driver will continue with the organization as a reserve and test driver in 2026.