Isak Hajar will race for Red Bull in 2026 alongside Max Verstappen, replacing Hiroki Tsunoda, who will become the team’s reserve driver.
Red Bull promoted Tsunoda in place of Liam Lawson after just two races this season, but opted for another change with Hajar earning a drive alongside Verstappen after a strong rookie season. Tsunoda will be a reserve as the Racing Bulls have another rookie in Arvid Lindblad who will race alongside Lawson.
“I am very grateful to Oracle Red Bull Racing for giving me the opportunity and trust to race at the highest level of Formula 1,” said Hajjar. “This is a huge reward considering all the hard work I have put in since joining the junior team. I have had many ups and downs throughout my career and they have believed in me and kept pushing me.
“This year on the Visa Cash App was really great for the Racing Bulls. I learned a lot and got my first podium. I feel like I’ve become much better as a racing driver and as a person thanks to the support and preparation of the team.”
“I feel ready to go to Oracle Red Bull Racing and I’m happy and proud that they feel the same way. It will be great to work with the best and learn from Max. I can’t wait.”
Red Bull will run a fourth driver alongside Verstappen in just over 12 months when Hajar steps up in early 2026 since Sergio Perez replaced Lawson after last year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Lindblad will get his first F1 chance alongside Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls. Mark Thompson/Getty Images
“Yuki has raced in Red Bull colors for seven years and it was a pleasure to work with him on both Red Bull teams,” said Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mequise. “Over the past five seasons in Formula 1, Yuki has developed into a complete racer, able to run a good lap on Saturday, and on Sunday show exceptional starts and excellent race technique.
“Everyone in the sport would agree that it’s hard not to like Yuki. His personality is contagious, making him a very special member of the Red Bull family. On behalf of everyone at Red Bull, we would like to thank him for his contribution to date and we know he will provide invaluable support to our 2026 project.”
“As for Isaac, in his first F1 season he showed great maturity and proved to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he demonstrated raw speed, which is the number one requirement in this sport. 2026 will be a big challenge for the team and for Red Bull Ford Powertrain. It’s an exciting time and I’m looking forward to what we can do together.”
This promotion opened up more spots for the Racing Bulls, and Tsunoda’s return was considered, but Lawson kept him motivated. His new teammate Lindblad is only four years into his single-seater career so far, but the 18-year-old has two wins in F2 this season and is on track for a top-six finish.
“I want to thank everyone at VCARB for the opportunity,” Lindblad said. “It has always been my goal to compete in F1 since I started this journey at the age of five, so I am proud to take this step.
“I am extremely grateful to the Red Bull Junior Program and my personal team for their guidance, guidance and belief. None of this would have been possible without their support. 2026 will be a big challenge and I know I have a lot to learn, but I am ready to work closely with the team to get going. I can’t wait to get started. It’s going to be an exciting year!”
