The most coveted yet dangerous seat in Formula 1 has a new owner. While the paddock prepares for the 2025 season finale, Red Bull wasted no time securing its future, dropping a major announcement Tuesday that reshapes the grid.
While Mercedes is busy working out a deal with PepsiCo, the Bulls confirmed their driver lineup for the 2026 campaign.
Isack Hadjar Is the Next Man Up To Partner the Most Feared Competitor in F1
Red Bull released a statement confirming a massive shakeup for the organization. Yuki Tsunoda moves to a reserve role, clearing the path for Racing Bulls standout Isack Hadjar to join Max Verstappen at Red Bull. Meanwhile, Liam Lawson remains at the junior squad, where he will team up with newcomer Arvid Lindblad.
Hadjar wasted no time sharing his excitement about the promotion. “I’m so grateful to Oracle Red Bull Racing for giving me the opportunity and trust to race at the highest level of Formula One,” he said. “After all the hard work I have put in since joining the Junior Team, it’s such a great reward.”
🚨 | BREAKING: Red Bull announce Isack Hadjar will be Max Verstappen’s new teammate in 2026.
Arvid Lindblad is promoted to VCARB alongside Liam Lawson.
Yuki Tsunoda loses his full-time seat, becoming Red Bull Reserve.
— formularacers (@formularacers_) December 2, 2025
Looking back on his journey, the young driver acknowledged the rollercoaster ride that led to this moment.
“I’ve had many ups and downs throughout my career, and they kept believing and pushing me,” he said. “This year with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls has been absolutely amazing, I’ve learnt a lot and secured a maiden podium. I feel I’m much better as a racing driver and a person, due to the Team‘s support and preparation.”
Now, the focus shifts to the challenge ahead: learning from four-time World Champion Verstappen.
“I feel ready to go to Oracle Red Bull Racing and I am happy and proud they feel the same,” he concluded. “It’s an awesome move, to work with the best and learn from Max is something I can’t wait for.”
What Does Team Leadership Think About the Move?
Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies weighed in on the changes, starting with a tribute to Tsunoda’s service to the organization.
“Yuki has raced in Red Bull colours for seven years now and I have had the pleasure of working with him at both Red Bull teams,” he said. “Through his five seasons so far in Formula One, Yuki has matured into a complete racer, good over a single lap on Saturday and capable of exceptional starts and excellent race craft on Sunday.”
Mekies also highlighted why the team believes Hadjar is ready for the spotlight alongside their star driver.
“As for Isack, in his first F1 season, he has displayed great maturity and proved to be a quick learner,” he added. “Most importantly, he has demonstrated the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe Isack can thrive alongside Max and produce the magic on track!”
The big question now is whether Hadjar can survive in the No. 2 seat. Sergio Perez has been the only one to hold the spot for several years. Lawson, Tsunoda, Pierre Gasly, and Alex Albon all failed to lock down the position.