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The Red Bull team has confirmed a major reshuffle for the 2026 Formula 1 season, moving up Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its senior team and giving British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut Formula 1 seat.

Lindblad, who comes from a mixed Swedish-Indian background, will be the partner of Kiwi driver Liam Lawson at the second team VCARB.

These changes results in Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda losing his seat after five seasons.

Who is Arvid Lindblad?

The youngster was identified as a potential future star by Red Bull from the age of 12 years old.

Talking about the company's junior academy, a senior Red Bull figure noted last year that Lindblad "looks really promising", praising his "raw pace".

The team has had a plan since last year to ready Lindblad for his likely F1 debut in 2026, including appearances in F1 practice sessions at Silverstone and Mexico City.

Lindblad stated it was a "huge honour", adding: "2026 will be a big challenge, and I know there's much to understand, but I'm prepared to collaborate with the team and step up. I can't wait to get started."

He has won two races in F2 so far this season and is sixth in the championship heading into the final round in Abu Dhabi.

A Major Opportunity for Hadjar

Hadjar's F1 career began on a low note when he crashed on the formation lap of the first Australian Grand Prix. But, from that point, he has been one of the most impressive newcomers this season.

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

A senior team figure said: "Hadjar has shown impressive growth and demonstrated to be a fast adapter. Crucially, he has the raw speed that is the primary necessity in this sport. We believe he can thrive next to Max."

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

The Lawson Decision

To partner Lindblad at the junior team, Red Bull have opted for Lawson over Tsunoda.

The New Zealander started 2025 with the senior squad but was moved back after just two races. He has settled back in at Racing Bulls with some strong performances, convincing Red Bull he deserves another season.

Tsunoda, meanwhile, has been ejected after a difficult season. His best result is a sixth place, and he has scored a minor percentage of the team's constructors' championship.

These announcements confirm that there remains no place on the Red Bull academy for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 next season.