Isack Hadjar will race for Crimson Bull in 2026 alongside Max Verstappen, changing Yuki Tsunoda who turns into a reserve driver for the crew.
Crimson Bull promoted Tsunoda rather than Liam Lawson after simply two races of this season, however has now opted to make one other change, with Hadjar impressing in his rookie marketing campaign and incomes the drive alongside Verstappen. Tsunoda will change into a reserve as Racing Bulls will discipline one other rookie in Arvid Lindblad, who will step as much as race alongside Lawson.
“I’m so grateful to Oracle Crimson Bull Racing for giving me the chance and belief to race on the highest degree of Method 1,” Hadjar mentioned. “After all of the onerous work I’ve put in since becoming a member of the junior crew, it’s such an awesome reward. I’ve had many ups and downs all through my profession, and so they stored believing and pushing me.
“This yr with Visa Money App Racing Bulls has been completely wonderful, I’ve learnt rather a lot and secured a maiden podium. I really feel I’m a lot better as a racing driver and an individual, because of the crew‘s help and preparation.
“I really feel able to go to Oracle Crimson Bull Racing and I’m pleased and proud they really feel the identical. It’s an superior transfer, to work with the perfect and be taught from Max is one thing I can’t look forward to.”
Crimson Bull will run its fourth driver alongside Verstappen in simply over 12 months when Hadjar makes the step up at first of 2026, following Sergio Perez being changed by Lawson after final yr’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Lindblad will get his first F1 alternative alongside Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls. Mark Thompson/Getty Photos
“Yuki has raced in Crimson Bull colours for seven years now and I’ve had the pleasure of working with him at each Crimson Bull groups,” Crimson Bull crew principal Laurent Mekies mentioned. “Via his 5 seasons to date in Method 1, Yuki has matured into a whole racer, good over a single lap on Saturday and able to distinctive begins and wonderful race craft on Sunday.
“Everybody within the sport would agree it’s inconceivable to not like Yuki, his persona is infectious, and he has change into a really particular a part of the Crimson Bull household. On behalf of everybody at Crimson Bull, I thank him for what he has contributed to date and we all know he’ll present invaluable help to the 2026 initiatives shifting forwards.
“As for Isack, in his first F1 season, he has displayed nice maturity and proved to be a fast learner. Most significantly, he has demonstrated the uncooked pace that’s the primary requirement on this sport. We imagine Isack can thrive alongside Max and produce the magic on monitor! 2026 can be an enormous problem for the crew and for Crimson Bull Ford Powertrains, these are thrilling instances, and I’m trying ahead to seeing what we are able to do collectively.”
The promotion opened up a spot at Racing Bulls, and whereas a return for Tsunoda was thought-about, it’s Lawson who retained his drive. His new teammate Lindblad has solely accomplished 4 years in single seaters to date in his profession, however the 18-year-old is on the right track for a prime six end after profitable two races in Method 2 this season.
“I’d wish to thank everybody at VCARB for the chance,” Lindblad mentioned. “Since I began this journey at 5 years previous, it was at all times my objective to be in Method 1 so it’s a proud second to take this step.
“I’m extraordinarily grateful to the Crimson Bull Junior Program and my private crew for his or her steering, mentorship and perception; none of this may have been attainable with out their help. 2026 can be an enormous problem and I do know there’s rather a lot to be taught, however I’m able to work intently with the crew and rise to it. I can’t wait to get began, it’s going to be an thrilling yr!”
