"From a competitive viewpoint, the exchange is warranted." Red Bull has officially announced a comprehensive revamp of its driver lineup for 2026, which sees Yuki Tsunoda losing his race seat and transitioning to a reserve role with Red Bull-Racing Bulls. Isack Hadjar will join Max Verstappen, while rookie Arvid Lindblad will take Tsunoda's place at Racing Bulls, teaming up with the retained Liam Lawson. Auto Motor und Sport provided insights into how Tsunoda's situation was determined and why Honda could no longer safeguard his position. "Honda had been his key asset until the very end," wrote correspondent Joel Lischka. "Red Bull lacked engines for the TPC cars; the latest versions were powered by Honda units. There was a proposal for Honda to sell its engines to Red Bull at a reduced rate if Tsunoda remained in a race seat," he clarified. However, Lischka noted that Red Bull eventually "declined the Honda discount proposal." "From a competitive standpoint, the change is justified anyway, as the development potential of the Kanagawa native is limited. Through Liam Lawson, Red Bull is optimistic about achieving a more rapid learning curve."

      "I’m pleased with the decision that was reached."

      Isack Hadjar expressed that his promotion to Red Bull for 2026 is not a "relief," but rather a validation that he performed the season he needed to. The 21-year-old French newcomer informed L’Equipe that he never perceived the forthcoming announcement—finally made by Red Bull on Tuesday—as a release of pressure. "It’s not a relief. I’m pleased with the decision that was taken," he stated. "I believe I had a very good season, and under the circumstances, it was the most logical choice. I’m very happy that Red Bull selected me after a year."

      Hadjar mentioned that he started to feel he deserved the seat during his early strong finishes. "Honestly, I think it was during the time I felt really confident and at ease with the car and the team," he shared. "And when I consistently finished in the top 10, I felt I was doing well and thought, why not?"

      He acknowledged that his podium finish at Zandvoort was particularly crucial. "It definitely helped a lot. That third place allowed me to demonstrate my strength, even under significant pressure. I earned that podium finish almost entirely on merit."

      However, Hadjar's rookie season started with a retirement during the formation lap in Melbourne, but he emphasized that his reaction was more critical than the error. "The only thing I focused on was getting back in the car and proving that it was just a minor mistake. Mentally, I’m strong; I recover quickly, and that’s what I did," he remarked.

      He believes this resilience is part of why Red Bull has faith in him alongside Verstappen. "I’ll need to be reliable everywhere, every day, every time I get in the car. And that applies everywhere, not just at Red Bull."

      He learned of his 2026 promotion "last week" and is mostly relieved that the constant speculation has ended. "It was coming up every weekend. I ended up repeating the same things I’d said the previous week," Hadjar recounted.

      Some still argue that moving to Red Bull is premature after just one season. Hadjar brushed off the concern. "If they chose me, it’s because they don’t think it’s too soon. I’m not at all the same driver I was a year ago. If they made this choice, it’s because they believe I’m ready."

      Regarding Verstappen, his excitement is clear. "It’s incredibly thrilling. At 21, having the opportunity to be alongside the best driver in the world—that’s what I’ve always wanted in my career. It’s a bit intimidating, but it’s incredibly exciting."

      He also emphasizes that he will approach the challenge with humility. "First, accepting it. I’m not going in thinking I’m going to outshine him because that’s unrealistic. It’s about learning and acknowledging that my time isn’t on Max’s level. Gradually, I’ll get closer. There’s really no pressure if I’m smart."

      He admits that the mental aspect will be the toughest challenge. "Throughout my career, I’ve usually been a bit ahead of my teammates. There’s a good chance I’ll find it hard to accept that he’s faster. That’s where I’ll need to remain calm."

      Hadjar has refrained from seeking advice from his friend and fellow countryman Pierre Gasly—who, like many before and after him, faced difficulties next to Verstappen. "Honestly, I’ve never discussed it with him because it’s a complex topic. But if he wants to talk to me, I’d be very glad."

      Despite idolizing Lewis Hamilton as a child, he states the historical rivalry with Verstappen won’t alter his objectives. "I want to win against everyone. Just because he was Lewis’s rival for years doesn’t mean it will make me any happier," he remarked.

      With his inaugural Red Bull season approaching, Hadjar is already aiming high. "If the car permits, it would be fantastic to win a Grand Prix, wouldn’t it? I can definitely envision that happening next year. That would be really cool."