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Helmut Marko outlines Red Bull’s timeline when deciding their second driver for 2026
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko revealed that the team’s 2026 driver line-up is still undecided, despite Max Verstappen’s confirmed extension. The team is evaluating options for Verstappen’s future partner due to Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda’s inconsistent performances. Tsunoda’s recent improvement and the emergence of junior driver Isack Hadjar have added complexity to Red Bull’s decision-making process for next year.
Marko mentioned that driver evaluations will be conducted post-summer break, hinting at possible changes in the team’s line-up. Isack Hadjar’s strong showing in the 2025 season has raised speculation about his potential promotion to Red Bull. Arvid Lindblad is another young talent in Red Bull’s development program, adding to the team’s choices for the future. Ultimately, the likelihood of Tsunoda losing his seat to Hadjar hinges on the Japanese driver’s performance in the remaining races of the season.
