Overview
- Red Bull named Isack Hadjar to partner Max Verstappen in 2026, moving Yuki Tsunoda into a test and reserve role.
- Yuki Tsunoda says Helmut Marko informed him after the Qatar race that he would lose his seat and that his contract barred talks with other teams for 2026.
- Isack Hadjar says he was told during Qatar week he must deliver at Red Bull and views the 2026 rules reset as a fresh start.
- McLaren says it will suspend its usual “Papaya-Rules” if required in Abu Dhabi, which could mean Oscar Piastri yields if it helps Norris clinch the title.
- Lando Norris leads the standings on 408 points ahead of Max Verstappen on 396 and Oscar Piastri on 392, with Verstappen acknowledging McLaren may hold the pace edge at Yas Marina.