The decision by Red Bull Racing comes just two races after Kvyat stood on the podium at the Chinese Grand Prix, but one week after the Russian endured a disappointing home Grand Prix.

In Sochi, Kvyat admitted misjudging his braking into Turn 2 on the first lap, causing a collision with Sebastian Vettel’s Ferrari which ricocheted into team mate Ricciardo’s car, resulting in damage to both Red Bulls, a ten-second stop-and-go penalty to Kvyat and no points for Red Bull Racing.

Verstappen, who won all three FIA-voted awards in 2015 – Rookie of the Year, Personality of the Year and Action of the Year – has long been considered a major star in the making, with a number of impressive performances for Red Bull’s junior team.

Christian Horner, Red Bull Racing Team Principal, said: “Max has proven to be an outstanding young talent. His performance at Toro Rosso has been impressive so far and we are pleased to give him the opportunity to drive for Red Bull Racing.

“We are in the unique position to have all four drivers across Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso under long term contracts with Red Bull, so we have the flexibility to move them between the two teams.

“Dany will be able to continue his development at Toro Rosso, in a team that he is familiar with, giving him the chance to regain his form and show his potential.”