Isack Hadjar is making waves in the motorsport world after his promotion to Red Bull Racing, a decision he believes is both timely and logical. The young Frenchman, whose driving style has drawn comparisons to reigning champion Max Verstappen, is eager to carve out his own identity in the high-pressure environment of Formula 1. However, Hadjar is quick to clarify that while they may share certain traits, their approaches to racing are distinctly different.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Hadjar as he partners with Verstappen, especially given the turbulent history of Red Bull’s second driver position. Many past teammates have struggled to keep pace, but Hadjar remains undeterred. He is confident in his ability to adapt to the demands of what will be a new car, thanks to a significant overhaul of regulations. “Well, it’s not true. It’s not the same car at all next year,” Hadjar asserted, dismissing the notion that he will face the same challenges as predecessors. “So that’s it. We’re going to get the car we have. The team is going to build this car. I have to adapt to that car, and Max will have to do the same job.”
The young driver emphasizes his readiness to contribute to the development of the new machine, hoping to feel the car’s evolution firsthand. “If the car goes in one direction, at least I’ll be there to feel the change. And ideally, I contribute to that change. So, that would be the ideal scenario,” he explained with a confidence that belies his age. Hadjar’s experience with various cars in his racing career has honed his adaptability, making him optimistic about the upcoming season. “I think I’m pretty decent at adapting, so I’m actually confident.”
Red Bull’s decision to finalize its driver lineup late in the season, which saw Arvid Lindblad and Liam Lawson stepping into key roles, indicates a strategic move from the six-time constructors’ champions. Hadjar reflected on the timing of his promotion, noting that it came at an “ideal” moment amidst the rule changes. “I can’t tell you, but let’s say I found out very late. Let’s say, Qatar race week,” he shared, shedding light on the surprise of his selection alongside Verstappen. “If that’s the line-up for next year, then I think they chose it because it makes sense.”
While parallels in driving style may be tempting to draw, Hadjar insists the true connection lies in their mental approaches to racing. “And, of course, because it’s a new regulation, so the timing is just very ideal for me,” he stated. “And then in terms of styles, I think obviously Max is very unique – he has a very unique style – and I would say myself as well. So I’m not obviously trying to copy what he’s doing. But in terms of mindset, we have some things in common. But yeah, that’s it.”
As Hadjar gears up for the challenge of teaming with Verstappen, the world watches closely, eager to see if this rising star can thrive under the immense pressure of one of the most competitive scenes in motorsport. With a promising mindset and an eagerness to adapt, Isack Hadjar is poised to make his mark in Formula 1.
