Isack Hadjar Joins Max Verstappen at Oracle Red Bull Racing for 2026 Formula One Season

Oracle Red Bull Racing has confirmed that rising star Isack Hadjar will partner four-time World Champion Max Verstappen in the team’s 2026 Formula One driver line-up. The announcement marks a major milestone in Hadjar’s rapid ascent through the Red Bull Junior programme and comes after an impressive rookie F1 season with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.

Only 21 years old, Hadjar has delivered standout performances throughout 2025, including a remarkable podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, firmly establishing himself as one of the most exciting young talents on the grid.

A New Era with the RB22 and Red Bull Ford Powertrains

The 2026 Formula One season introduces the biggest technical regulation overhaul in decades, along with the highly anticipated debut of Red Bull Ford Powertrains. Oracle Red Bull Racing will take on this new era with a driver pairing that blends Verstappen’s experience and championship pedigree with Hadjar’s speed, hunger, and youthful energy.

The team’s 2026 challenger, the RB22, will be the first car powered by the all-new Red Bull Ford hybrid power unit, marking the next chapter in the team’s evolution.

Farewell to Yuki Tsunoda as He Moves to Test & Reserve Role

Hadjar’s promotion means the team will bid farewell to Yuki Tsunoda from its race driver line-up. The Japanese driver has spent seven years within the Red Bull system, rising from the Red Bull Junior Team in 2019 to making over 100 Grands Prix starts—first with the team now known as Racing Bulls and later becoming the 10th Red Bull Junior graduate to race for Oracle Red Bull Racing.

Tsunoda will remain part of the Red Bull family as the Red Bull Test and Reserve Driver for 2026, continuing to play a crucial role in development ahead of the new regulations.

Laurent Mekies: “Isack has shown the raw speed we require.”

Laurent Mekies, CEO and Team Principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing, praised both drivers:

“Yuki has matured into a complete racer… his personality is infectious, and he has become a very special part of the Red Bull family. We thank him for everything he has contributed and know he will be invaluable in 2026.”

Speaking on Hadjar’s promotion, Mekies added:

“Isack has displayed great maturity and proved to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he has shown the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe he can thrive alongside Max and produce magic on track. With the 2026 regulation changes and Red Bull Ford Powertrains debuting, these are incredibly exciting times.”

Isack Hadjar: “It’s an awesome move – I can’t wait to learn from Max.”

A grateful and excited Hadjar reflected on his journey:

“I’m so grateful to Oracle Red Bull Racing for giving me this opportunity and trust. This year with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls has been amazing—I’ve learnt a lot and secured my maiden podium. I feel ready to make the step, and I can’t wait to work with the best and learn from Max.”

A Bold Line-Up for the Future of Formula One

With Max Verstappen leading the charge and Isack Hadjar representing the next generation, Oracle Red Bull Racing heads into 2026 with one of the most compelling and dynamic driver pairings on the grid. The combination of proven championship talent and emerging speed positions the team strongly for the sport’s new era.