Red Bull Racing are preparing for a major overhaul ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season, with reports suggesting that Max Verstappen will line up alongside a new teammate. The team, currently sitting fourth in the constructors’ standings, has struggled to find consistent form despite Verstappen’s strong showing at Monza, where he clinched his 66th career win. With sweeping regulation changes set to reshape the sport next year, Red Bull are determined to re-establish themselves as championship contenders.
According to German outlet Auto Motor und Sport, it is now an “open secret” that 20-year-old Isack Hadjar will be promoted from the Racing Bulls outfit after a breakthrough year that included a podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix. Alongside that, 18-year-old British talent Arvid Lindblad is expected to secure a seat at Racing Bulls following his impressive rise through Formula 2. These moves mark Red Bull’s intent to lean on fresh, young talent as they gear up for the new era of F1.
However, such changes inevitably mean others will have to make way. Current drivers Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda are both under pressure, with reports indicating that Tsunoda is the most likely to lose his place. Despite swapping seats with Lawson early in the season, the pair have collected just 32 championship points combined – far from the performance levels Red Bull demand. Tsunoda’s contract is said to be nearing its end, and the team is reportedly unwilling to offer him an extension.
Tsunoda’s future remains uncertain, though speculation has linked him to Aston Martin due to Honda’s upcoming partnership with the British team in 2026. While that move could keep him on the grid, the path is complicated by the lack of available seats. Meanwhile, Verstappen has reaffirmed his long-term commitment to Red Bull, shutting down rumors of a Mercedes switch as he becomes increasingly involved in shaping the team’s future direction.
Team officials have confirmed that Verstappen is playing a hands-on role in the development of Red Bull’s new Ford-powered engine for 2026. He’s not only contributing feedback from behind the wheel but also working closely with engineers in simulators and technical meetings. Red Bull insiders describe him as central to the project, focused on ensuring the car is competitive from the start of the new regulations. For Verstappen, the goal is simple: a machine fast enough to keep him fighting for titles, no matter who occupies the second seat.
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