Hadjar in, Tsunoda out at Red Bull for 2026 + F1's big title decider previewed

In a bumper mid-week edition of The Race F1 Podcast, we analyse Red Bull's big driver decisions for 2026 and look ahead to the massive title showdown in Abu Dhabi between Lando Norris, Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri.

First up, with the news that Isack Hadjar is to be promoted in place of Yuki Tsuonda in 2026, we asked if the 21-year-old can end the curse of the second Red Bull and thrive as Max Verstappen’s team-mate. 

Jon Noble and Ben Anderson join Edd Straw to explain why the change has been made and what qualities Hadjar has shown during his rookie F1 season, as well as the challenges he will face. Whether Yuki Tsunoda has been given a fair shot at Red Bull Racing is also discussed, along with why he failed to make a bigger impact in his outings for the team in 2025.

We also explain why Liam Lawson has been given the nod to lead the sister Racing Bulls squad in 2026, and what we can expect from his new rookie team-mate, Arvid Lindblad, who'll partner the New Zealander next season. 

Finally, we look ahead to the world championship decider in Abu Dhabi, discussing the various title permutations, how each contender is likely to approach the weekend, and what could potentially derail the points leader and favourite, Lando Norris.

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