Red Bull 2026, Verstappen’s teammate is now semi-official

According to several reports coming from Qatar, particularly from British commentator Ted Kravitz, the driver situation at Red Bull and Racing Bulls for F1 2026 already appears quite defined. Isack Hadjar and Yuki Tsunoda have reportedly been informed about their future. With the Austrian management making clear what direction they intend to take ahead of the upcoming line-up changes.

From what we understand, everything is clear. Verstappen will have a new teammate, and Yuki Tsunoda, despite his fighting spirit, has not convinced the team enough to keep his seat. If his departure is confirmed, the Japanese driver may be heading toward a future outside Formula 1. Rumours point to a path similar to Mick Schumacher’s, who will make his IndyCar debut next year. Tsunoda could receive backing from Toyota for a potential switch to the American series.

So who gets promoted to Red Bull?

All signs point to Isack Hadjar. Unless there’s a late twist, the Frenchman is set to join Verstappen after an impressive 2025 season. Currently racing with Racing Bulls (formerly Toro Rosso), Hadjar sits ninth in the standings with 51 points and a podium in the Netherlands. Results that convinced Red Bull to bring him up to the main team.

Of course, the Red Bull environment is known for shaping careers—or crushing them. The big question is whether Hadjar will be able to withstand the pressure that comes with such a seat.

And what about Racing Bulls?

There, things look more straightforward. Liam Lawson is expected to be confirmed for 2026 after a strong rookie season. He scored 39 F1 points and finishing 14th overall. Alongside him should arrive Arvid Lindblad, the young Anglo-Swedish driver who, after securing his super licence, already took part in FP1 at Silverstone this year.

The full line-up is expected to be officially announced by both teams during the final 2025 weekend in Abu Dhabi. It would be a young but well-balanced group, anchored by the experience of Max Verstappen—four-time world champion and still the undisputed reference point for the Austrian outfit.