The high-octane world of Formula 1 is already looking towards the 2026 season, with a major question looming over the Red Bull Racing garage: who will have the privilege—and immense pressure—of partnering three-time World Champion Max Verstappen?
The coveted second seat at the championship-winning team is shaping up to be one of the most hotly contested battles in the paddock. While Verstappen's position is secure until at least 2028, his future teammate remains a complete mystery, setting the stage for an intense internal competition.
The Contenders for the Crown Jewel Seat
Red Bull finds itself in an enviable position with a wealth of talent across its driver programme. The main contenders currently vying for attention are:
- Yuki Tsunoda: The experienced VCARB driver has been in scintillating form, delivering consistent points finishes and demonstrating a new level of maturity. His development has certainly not gone unnoticed by Team Principal Christian Horner.
- Isack Hadjar: The young Frenchman is currently leading the Formula 2 championship and is highly regarded within the Red Bull junior setup. A strong 2025 campaign could make him a formidable candidate.
- Gabriel Bortoleto: Another standout in the junior formulae, the Brazilian talent is part of the McLaren driver development programme but remains on the Red Bull radar as a potential future star.
Horner's High-Stakes Decision
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner has openly acknowledged the dilemma, emphasising that performance over the next 18 months will be the ultimate decider. The team is in no rush to make a call, preferring to let the situation develop naturally.
"We're blessed with great talent, and it's a nice problem to have," Horner recently stated, highlighting the strength in depth available to the team. The decision will be crucial, as finding a driver who can consistently score points and support Verstappen in the constructors' championship is paramount.
The 2026 season represents a seismic shift in Formula 1 with major technical regulation changes. Having a stable and competitive driver line-up will be more critical than ever for Red Bull to maintain its dominance in this new era.
