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The Red Bull team has announced significant changes for the 2026 F1 campaign, moving up French driver Isack Hadjar to its senior team and giving British teenager Arvid Lindblad his maiden F1 drive.

Lindblad, who has a Swedish father and a mother of Indian descent, will be the partner of New Zealander Liam Lawson at the second team Racing Bulls.

This driver musical chairs results in Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda exiting the grid following a five-year stint.

Who is Arvid Lindblad?

Lindblad has been tagged as a rising talent by Red Bull since he was 12 years old.

Regarding the company's junior academy, a key advisor previously said that Lindblad "seems extremely gifted", commending his "pure speed".

The team has been working for some time to prepare Lindblad for his potential F1 debut in 2026, featuring appearances in F1 practice sessions at the British and Mexican races.

Lindblad stated it was a "proud moment", adding: "2026 will be a huge step, and I know there's much to understand, but I'm ready to work closely with the team and step up. I can't wait to get started."

Lindblad has taken two races in F2 this year and is sixth in the championship heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

The Frenchman's Chance

The Frenchman's debut season began in difficult fashion when he spun out during the warm-up lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. However, from that point, he has emerged as one of the stand-out newcomers this season.

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

The team principal said: "Hadjar has displayed great maturity 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 succeed next to Max."

The promoted driver called it "an awesome move" and said he felt "prepared".

Lawson Retains His Seat

For the seat at Racing Bulls, Red Bull have opted for Lawson over Tsunoda.

The New Zealander started 2025 with the senior squad but was moved back early in the year. He has found his form at the junior outfit with some strong performances, convincing Red Bull he merits another season.

The Japanese driver, meanwhile, loses his place after a disappointing season. His best result is a P6, and he has accumulated a small fraction of the team's constructors' championship.

The driver market moves mean that there remains no place on the Red Bull academy for Ireland's Alex Dunne, who will remain in F2 next season.