Red Bull Delays 2026 F1 Line‑Up Reveal Until After Abu Dhabi as Debate Swirls Over Selections

Alan Permane says the holdback reflects a need to protect focus on tight constructor battles and maintain stability.

Overview

Racing Bulls chief Alan Permane indicated the decision could be announced on the Monday after the Abu Dhabi finale, distancing the delay from the 2026 technical rules.
Max Verstappen’s Red Bull seat is effectively secured by a long-term contract, while all other Red Bull and Racing Bulls spots remain unconfirmed for 2026.
Isack Hadjar is widely expected to be promoted and has said he holds a Red Bull contract for next season, though his destination team has not been specified.
Red Bull junior Arvid Lindblad is broadly tipped for a Racing Bulls drive, leaving Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson vying for the remaining place, according to multiple reports.
Liam Lawson says the extended timeline gives him more opportunity to make his case, while Juan Pablo Montoya contends internal politics could influence whether Tsunoda is retained.