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🔍 What We Know So Far
- Isack Hadjar, currently driving for Red Bull’s satellite team Racing Bulls, has been reported by multiple outlets as the top contender to join Red Bull’s main team for 2026.
- The French rookie has stood out this season: he collected his first F1 podium at the Dutch Grand Prix, is regularly scoring points, and has impressed in qualifying.
- Yuki Tsunoda, who replaced Liam Lawson at Red Bull in 2025 (from the Japanese GP onwards), is facing mounting pressure. His performances have been inconsistent.
- Red Bull’s management, including Team Principal Laurent Mekies, has stated that no final decision has been made yet on the 2026 lineup, indicating they are taking their time.
⚠️ What “Not Confirmed” Means
- The promotion of Hadjar is reported, not officially announced. That means there are still possibilities for Tsunoda to retain his seat or be moved within the Red Bull family.
- There are also rumours that if Hadjar moves up, Arvid Lindblad (a Red Bull junior currently in F2) may be promoted to Racing Bulls to fill gaps.
- Official statements from Red Bull emphasize that the decision depends on consistency and performance—not just single races.
🚀 What This Means for Tsunoda & Red Bull
- If Hadjar is promoted, it’s very likely Yuki Tsunoda will be replaced as Max Verstappen’s teammate for 2026.
- Tsunoda's future options could include returning to Racing Bulls (though that may be unlikely if the seat is needed for someone else), or possibly exploring opportunities elsewhere (especially given Red Bull’s changing engine partnerships and the Honda → Ford transitions starting 2026).
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✅ Final Word
- Confirmed fact: Hadjar is being widely tipped/rumoured to join Red Bull in 2026; Tsunoda’s seat is under serious threat. Motorsport Week+2beIN SPORTS+2
- Not confirmed: Officially Hadjar has not yet signed for Red Bull; Tsunoda’s replacement is not yet finalized. Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website+1
Red Bull have many strong cards to play; 2026 looks set to be a season where fresh talent may get a real shot.