Hadjar Outlines 2026 Red Bull Approach as Mekies Backs Tsunoda’s Return

Overview

• Red Bull confirmed Isack Hadjar will partner Max Verstappen in 2026, with Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad set for Racing Bulls and Yuki Tsunoda shifting to a test and reserve role.
• Hadjar says the promotion timing "makes sense" with the regulations reset and reveals he learned of the decision around Qatar race week.
• He plans to accept an initial pace gap in his first month, target rapid adaptation to the new car, and provide input as development choices are made.
• Team boss Laurent Mekies calls the second Red Bull seat demanding, says the team tried to support Tsunoda, and signals that swift driver decisions could create a route back for him.
• Lawson’s early 2025 drop from Red Bull was followed by a points‑scoring rebound at Racing Bulls, a recovery Mekies cited in retaining him for 2026 alongside rookie Lindblad.