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The Austrian squad has announced a major reshuffle for the 2026 F1 campaign, promoting Frenchman Isack Hadjar to its main squad and awarding British teenager Arvid Lindblad his debut Formula 1 seat.

Lindblad, who has a Swedish father and a mother of Indian descent, is set to become the partner of Kiwi driver Liam Lawson at the sister squad Racing Bulls.

This reshuffling means Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda losing his seat after five seasons.

The New British Hope

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

Regarding the company's young driver programme, a senior Red Bull figure noted last year that Lindblad "appears very talented", praising his "pure speed".

The team has been working since last year to prepare Lindblad for his potential Grand Prix bow in 2026, featuring runs in Grand Prix practice at the British and Mexican races.

The rookie said it was a "dream come true", commenting: "Next season represents a massive test, and I know there's a lot to learn, but I'm ready to work closely with the team and step up. I am incredibly excited to get started."

He has won two races in F2 this year and is P6 in the standings ahead of the final round in Abu Dhabi.

Hadjar's Big Break

Hadjar's F1 career began in difficult fashion when he crashed during the warm-up lap of the first Australian Grand Prix. However, since then, he has emerged as one of the most impressive rookies this season.

His performances featured an outstanding top-three result at the Dutch Grand Prix, and he lies 10th in the championship.

The team principal commented: "Hadjar has shown impressive growth 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 incredible opportunity" and said he felt "prepared".

The Lawson Decision

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

The New Zealander began the season with the main team but was demoted after just two races. However, he has found his form at Racing Bulls with notable results, convincing Red Bull he merits more time.

Tsunoda, meanwhile, loses his place after a disappointing season. His best result is a sixth place, and he has accumulated a minor percentage of the team's constructors' championship.

The driver market moves confirm that there remains no place on the Red Bull academy for Irish driver Alex Dunne, who will continue in F2 for 2026.