Overview
- Red Bull confirmed Isack Hadjar will partner Max Verstappen in 2026 as Yuki Tsunoda shifts to test and reserve duties, with Laurent Mekies praising Tsunoda’s growth and planned support for 2026 projects.
- Yuki Tsunoda says Helmut Marko told him privately after the Qatar race that he would lose his seat; he expresses disappointment yet vows to work his way back onto the grid.
- Tsunoda says clauses in his deal prevented negotiations with interested teams for 2026, leaving a reserve role as his only option within the Red Bull system.
- Isack Hadjar says Marko informed him during Qatar week that he would drive for Red Bull and must deliver, adding he has no expectations and will start from zero under the 2026 rules reset.
- As the Abu Dhabi finale decides the 2025 title — Norris 408 points, Verstappen 396, Piastri 392 — McLaren plans pre‑race talks and is prepared to use team orders, a scenario Verstappen acknowledges could unfold.