Red Bull Racing are preparing for a major change to their 2026 driver lineup, with reports suggesting that Isack Hadjar will be promoted to the main team to partner Max Verstappen.
This move is expected
to come at the expense of Yuki Tsunoda, who has struggled to make a lasting impression since his promotion earlier this year.
Hadjar Shining Bright
The 20-year-old French driver has been one of the standout performers at Racing Bulls in 2025. He recently celebrated his first Formula 1 podium at Zandvoort and has consistently registered point-earning drives.
Currently sitting ninth in the Drivers’ Championship with 38 points, Hadjar has consistently delivered results, trailing only Nico Hülkenberg by one point in the standings and Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli by 28. His steady rise has made him Red Bull’s top candidate for a full-time seat.
Tsunoda Struggles to Impress
Tsunoda, who joined Red Bull from Racing Bulls at the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix, has not been able to match expectations. His best finishes came in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, where he placed ninth, but those isolated results were not enough.
In 14 starts this season, Tsunoda has collected just 12 points, leaving him 19th in the Championship. Despite strong backing from Honda, his inconsistency has left Red Bull with little confidence heading into the new regulations era in 2026.
Youth Movement at Red Bull
Hadjar’s promotion is part of a wider Red Bull strategy to inject young talent into their setup.
Rising star Arvid Lindblad is also expected to be handed a Racing Bulls seat in 2026, ensuring the program continues to feed the main team with fresh prospects.
