The stakes are high for Red Bull in 2026, and F1 commentator Martin Brundle is sounding the alarm: they're playing a risky game with their driver lineup. With the sport undergoing its most significant technical overhaul in history, the choices Red Bull makes now could define their future. Let's dive in!
Red Bull faces a pivotal moment, with three crucial seats up for grabs for the 2026 season. Max Verstappen's teammate is still undecided, and both seats at Racing Bulls are open. This presents a complex puzzle for the team's strategists.
Isack Hadjar has impressed during his rookie season with Racing Bulls, even securing a podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix. He's outperformed Liam Lawson, who was previously dropped by Red Bull after only two races.
Could Hadjar's potential promotion signal the end of Yuki Tsunoda's F1 career? Brundle believes Tsunoda has had his opportunities. With Honda moving away from Red Bull, the Japanese connection might be less influential. Brundle emphasizes the need to consider the future, especially with the dramatic changes coming in 2026.
"The problem is, for next year, there’s such a dramatic change — the biggest ever in the history of F1 with the power units and the chassis — that you want experience, you want knowledge," Brundle stated.
Brundle suggests that Lawson shows potential, but he doesn't think Hadjar is ready for the main team. He believes Hadjar needs another year to develop.
Racing Bulls' 2026 Driver Dilemma
Racing Bulls must choose between Tsunoda and Lawson to lead their team. Tsunoda's experience might not align with RB's goal of finding the next Verstappen or Sebastian Vettel. Lawson, despite being demoted, has shown flashes of brilliance and could lead the team alongside Arvid Lindblad.
Lindblad, currently in Formula 2, has already driven for Red Bull in two FP1 sessions this year. Brundle wonders if Lindblad needs more experience, calling it a gamble.
"They’ll say ‘we refer you to Max Verstappen and Sebastian Vettel when we put young guys in, and if they’re good enough, they can handle it’,” Brundle added.
But here's where it gets controversial... Brundle suspects Red Bull is having a serious discussion about whether to take a risk on Hadjar in the main team and Lindblad at Racing Bulls. This is a bold move, considering the massive changes in the sport.
What do you think? Do you agree with Brundle's assessment? Should Red Bull prioritize experience or take a chance on young talent? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
