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The Red Bull team has confirmed significant changes for the 2026 F1 campaign, moving up Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its senior team and giving 18-year-old Briton Arvid Lindblad his debut F1 drive.

The young driver, who is of Swedish and Indian heritage, will be the partner of New Zealander Liam Lawson at the second team VCARB.

These changes means Japan's Yuki Tsunoda being without a drive following a five-year stint.

Who is Arvid Lindblad?

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

Talking about the team's junior academy, a senior Red Bull figure previously said that Lindblad "looks really promising", praising his "raw pace".

Red Bull has had a plan for some time to ready Lindblad for his potential Grand Prix bow in 2026, featuring appearances in F1 practice sessions at the British and Mexican races.

The rookie said it was a "proud moment", adding: "Next season represents a huge step, and I know there's plenty to absorb, but I'm prepared to collaborate with the team and rise to it. I am incredibly excited to get started."

Lindblad has taken a couple of victories 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 on a low note when he crashed during the warm-up lap of the first Australian Grand Prix. However, from that point, he has emerged as one of the most impressive newcomers of the year.

He featured an excellent top-three result at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies in tenth place in the championship.

The team principal commented: "Isack has shown impressive growth and proved to be a quick learner. Crucially, he has the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe he can excel next to Max."

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

Tsunoda's Exit

For the seat at the junior team, Red Bull have opted for Lawson over Tsunoda.

The New Zealander started 2025 with the main team but was demoted after just two races. He has found his form at Racing Bulls with some strong performances, convincing Red Bull he merits another season.

The Japanese driver, in contrast, loses his place after a difficult season. His highest finish is a P6, and he has scored a minor percentage of the team's constructors' championship.

These announcements mean that there is also no spot on the Red Bull academy for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 next season.