Two former teammates of Max Verstappen at Red Bull have expressed confidence that the upcoming radical rule changes in 2026 will benefit Isack Hadjar as he competes this season. Promoted to Red Bull’s main Formula 1 team for his sophomore year, Hadjar aims to rise to the challenge alongside four-time world champion Verstappen, despite the difficulty many have faced matching Verstappen’s pace with identical machinery. The focus is on how the new regulations might level the playing field enough for Hadjar to remain competitive throughout the season.
Insights from Albon on Hadjar’s Adaptation and Potential
Alex Albon, who previously raced against Verstappen as his teammate, highlighted Hadjar’s speed and comfort in the car during early testing. Speaking at the Bahrain test, Albon described the regulation overhaul as a “fresh start” for all drivers. He emphasized the learning curve Hadjar faces, not only in competing against a fast teammate but also in mastering the new car dynamics introduced by the 2026 rules. Albon remains optimistic about Hadjar’s prospects under these conditions.
“I think Isack is a quick driver,”
Albon said.
“And I think actually this regulation change will be good for everyone. It’s a fresh start for everyone. Based on what I’ve seen so far, he seems to be quite comfortable in the car, and I think it’s a lot of learning to do, not just in terms of having a quick team-mate but also the car itself.”
“I think he’s going to do ok.”
Sergio Perez Highlights Both Challenges and Promise for Hadjar
Sergio Perez, who also partnered Verstappen at Red Bull during his career, reflected on the unique pressure associated with that role, calling it both the best and worst job in Formula 1. Despite his own difficult finish with Red Bull before the 2025 season, Perez views Hadjar’s chance to join the team amid regulatory shifts as a significant advantage. He praised Hadjar’s talent and urged him to maintain composure to build a successful career. Perez also praised Red Bull’s environment as ideal for a young driver starting out with such a formidable teammate.
“I think it’s great to come into Red Bull with such a change in the regulations,”
Perez said.
“Isack is a very talented driver, he’s shown that, and I’m sure that as long as he stays cool throughout the year, he will have a very successful career in Formula 1. And also being team-mates with Max in F1, it’s a great team.”
“So, I think it’s a great place for him to be in at this point of his career. I think it’s a great opportunity.”
Hadjar’s Early Season Challenges and Outlook
Despite the high expectations, Hadjar has faced setbacks during the preseason. His winter preparation was interrupted by a crash at the Barcelona shakedown, which cost him a day of running. Additionally, mechanical troubles restricted his track time during Bahrain sessions, limiting valuable testing experience. Nevertheless, the guidance from experienced former teammates and the potential advantages brought by the 2026 regulation changes could provide Hadjar with the tools needed to take on the Max Verstappen team challenge successfully this season.
