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Red Bull has revealed significant changes for the 2026 Grand Prix year, moving up Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its A-team and awarding British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut Formula 1 seat.

Lindblad, who is of Swedish and Indian heritage, will be team-mate to New Zealander Liam Lawson at the junior outfit VCARB.

This driver musical chairs means Japan's Yuki Tsunoda being without a drive following a five-year stint.

A Star in the Making

Lindblad has been tagged as a potential future star by Red Bull since he was 12 years old.

Discussing 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 Grand Prix bow in 2026, featuring appearances in Grand Prix practice at the British and Mexican races.

Lindblad stated it was a "huge honour", commenting: "Next season represents a big challenge, and I know there's much to understand, but I'm prepared to work closely with the team and meet the challenge. I can't wait to get started."

Lindblad has taken two races in F2 so far this season and is P6 in the championship heading into the final round in Abu Dhabi.

The Frenchman's Chance

The Frenchman's debut season started in difficult fashion when he crashed during the warm-up lap of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. However, since then, he has emerged as one of the most impressive rookies this season.

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

A senior team figure commented: "Hadjar has displayed great maturity and proved 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."

Hadjar described it "an incredible opportunity" and said he felt "prepared".

Lawson Retains His Seat

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

Lawson started 2025 with the main team but was moved back after just two races. He has settled back in at the junior outfit with notable results, persuading Red Bull he merits another season.

The Japanese driver, meanwhile, has been ejected after a disappointing season. His highest finish is a sixth place, and he has scored a small fraction of the team's points total.

These announcements confirm that there is also no place on the Red Bull academy for Ireland's Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 for 2026.