Verstappen will be joined by Hadjar at Red Bull next year

As expected, Isack Hadjar promotes to Red Bull Racing for 2026, partnering Max Verstappen. He replaces Yuki Tsunoda, who now becomes the team's reserve driver after a difficult season where he failed to impress following his replacement of Liam Lawson. Hadjar expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting his growth and maiden podium with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls. He feels ready to learn from Verstappen.

Meanwhile, teenager Arvid Lindblad will make his F1 debut at the sister team, Racing Bulls, alongside the retained Liam Lawson. Lindblad, currently sixth in Formula 2, described this step as his lifelong goal and is eager to tackle the challenge.

This announcement confirms the complete 22-driver grid for the 2026 season. It arrives just before the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Verstappen faces an intense three-way title showdown, needing to overcome a twelve-point deficit to Lando Norris to secure his fifth consecutive title.