Big change at Red Bull, as the team has decided to replace Tsunoda with Hadjar. What led to this choice, and what will happen to the drivers?
Before the arrival of 2026, Red Bull is putting Yuki Tsunoda on the bench and replacing him with Isack Hadjar. The team is therefore making a huge change in its driver line-up. This decision surprises fans, as it concerns a popular but struggling driver.
Red Bull chooses Hadjar to join Verstappen
The team observed this season the performances of several drivers from its programme. It finally decided to bet on Hadjar, who has impressed since joining Racing Bulls. The Frenchman is stringing together solid results and shows rare maturity for a rookie. And this clearly pleases the team management.
Hadjar wins Red Bull over with his rapid progression
The french driver started the year at Racing Bulls alongside Tsunoda. That said, he quickly established himself as a reliable asset. He scores more points than his Japanese teammate and remains consistent even on difficult weekends. Red Bull values this type of profile, especially with the technical challenge expected for 2026.
Management considers that Hadjar can adapt quickly. He can also work in Verstappen’s shadow and help the team remain competitive. All of this comes in the context of a deeply modified set of regulations. This perspective explains why Red Bull is making this bold gamble and betting on Isack Hadjar.
What role is Red Bull giving Tsunoda?
The decision is a harsh one for Tsunoda. The Japanese driver has indeed been unable to confirm his potential after his provisional promotion within the main team. Red Bull, however, believes he remains useful in a different role, especially with ongoing discussions involving Honda.
Tsunoda could stay thanks to a test programme
Yuki Tsunoda will also not find a full-time seat in 2026. In fact, Racing Bulls will field Lawson and Lindblad. Red Bull is nevertheless discussing with Honda to continue a TPC test programme. This is essential for developing the new cars. Tsunoda could therefore become a very active reserve driver even if Red Bull replaced him with Hadjar.
The Japanese manufacturer wants to keep a representative within Red Bull’s environment. This is true even if Ford’s arrival makes the equation more complex. This fallback option would offer the driver continued presence in F1 despite losing a race seat.
Can this choice strengthen the team ahead of the new rules?
Red Bull is anticipating a decisive 2026 season for the future of the team. The arrival of the new in-house engine, developed with Ford, requires rethinking the sporting strategy. The team wants to combine stability and renewal to avoid transitional mistakes seen in the past.
Verstappen and Hadjar, Red Bull’s new shock duo
Max Verstappen remains, in any case, the cornerstone of the project. Red Bull is counting on him to guide the development of the new package. At his side, Hadjar represents the assumed risk. His ability to adapt, his constantly improving pace and his lack of media pressure create a complementary duo. Red Bull hopes to build a healthier dynamic for the coming seasons.
