Red Bull Delays 2026 Driver Decision Until Abu Dhabi Finale

Red Bull has pushed back its decision on the 2026 Formula 1 driver lineup until around the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in early December, prioritizing Max Verstappen's championship battle. This move comes after Lando Norris's recent victory in Mexico, which has intensified the championship fight.

Why it matters:

• The delay signals Red Bull's unwavering focus on securing the current championship title, underscoring the high stakes of Verstappen's battle.
• It also reflects a strategic patience in evaluating a competitive pool of young talent, ensuring the best long-term fit for both Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls.

The Details:

• Red Bull's motorsport advisor Helmut Marko confirmed the decision, stating, "We postponed our decision until the end of the season, because first we want to focus on the championship fight." The announcement is expected around the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
• Team principal Laurent Mekies emphasized the team's contractual flexibility, allowing them to take more time to assess drivers like Yuki Tsunoda, Isack Hadjar, and Liam Lawson, who are all showing progress.
• Emerging Talent in Mexico: 18-year-old Arvid Lindblad impressed during his FP1 appearance in Verstappen's RB21 at the Mexico Grand Prix, earning praise from Mekies for his calm and effective performance.
  • Lindblad's composed run, providing accurate feedback and avoiding errors, has bolstered his chances for a Racing Bulls seat, despite an uneven F2 season attributed to engine challenges.
  • He is expected to get another opportunity at the Young Driver Test in Abu Dhabi.

The Big Picture:

• The F1 paddock largely sees Hadjar as the leading candidate to partner Verstappen at Red Bull Racing in 2026.
• Lindblad is strongly positioned for a seat at Racing Bulls.
• The final Racing Bulls seat remains a contest between Tsunoda and Lawson, with Tsunoda's future potentially impacted by Honda's move to Aston Martin in 2026.

What's next:

• The extended evaluation period provides Tsunoda, Hadjar, and Lawson additional crucial opportunities to demonstrate their capabilities on track.
• The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will not only determine the championship outcome but also unveil Red Bull's strategic vision for its 2026 driver lineups across both teams.