Isack Hadjar, who will join as the Max Verstappen Red Bull teammate for the 2026 Formula 1 season, shared his thoughts about the unique pressures of this high-profile partnership. Hadjar, after a strong performance in his rookie season with Racing Bulls, acknowledged the challenge and scrutiny that comes with racing alongside one of the sport’s elite at the highly competitive Red Bull team.
Racing with Red Bull marks a significant step up for Hadjar, as he moves from their sister squad, Racing Bulls, to join Verstappen, often referred to as a “career killer” due to the formidable standards he sets. Verstappen’s reputation for extracting maximum performance from the car makes the prospect of being his teammate daunting even for the most promising newcomers. Hadjar, just 21, will have to maintain focus and resilience to thrive within this pressure cooker environment and prove himself among the world’s best.
Facing the Media Spotlight and High Expectations
Hadjar openly discussed the psychological weight that accompanies the opportunity to become the Max Verstappen Red Bull teammate. The Frenchman noted that joining the top team in Formula 1 at such a young age is both a privilege and a source of extra scrutiny. He pointed out that mistakes will be magnified, especially under the relentless gaze of the media and the expectations of Red Bull’s global fanbase.
“It’s hard to realise, It’s not just Red Bull, it’s just being a team-mate with Max. I’m so grateful because I’m just 21 and I get to see what the highest level in the world is like at such a young age. So I’m very lucky. It’s just annoying, if anything (media). I have a plan to disappear. Wear a mask. I don’t know.”
– Isack Hadjar said, as reported by RacingNews365.
The French driver expects to be under intense observation, with every shortcoming potentially amplified by the press. Despite joking about “disappearing” from the grid or wearing a mask to avoid negative attention, Hadjar demonstrated awareness of the immense pressure and emphasized the need to stay grounded and focused to withstand the inevitable challenges of such a coveted seat.
Acknowledging Roots at Racing Bulls and the Importance of Hard Work
Before his Red Bull promotion, Hadjar began his F1 journey with Racing Bulls, where he quickly impressed with a podium finish in his debut season. The environment at Racing Bulls, described as supportive and welcoming, gave Hadjar a strong foundation for his career. The team’s balanced approach—serious about development but fostering a family-like atmosphere—helped develop Hadjar’s racing talents and mindset for the elite level.
“VCARB is a family team, But at the same time, I’m not here to have a laugh. I have friends to have fun with when I go home, and when I’m on track, I’m here to work. So I don’t mind it. I couldn’t have wished for a better team to start my F1 career with, They’re used to developing kids.”
– Isack Hadjar noted.
Though grateful for the friendly atmosphere at Racing Bulls, Hadjar made it clear that being part of Formula 1 is about excelling and reaching new heights. He emphasized that, despite strong team bonds, his ultimate aim has always been to focus on performance, not just to enjoy the ride. As he joins the Red Bull parent team, Hadjar voiced readiness for the more intense demands and greater workload ahead.
Uncertain Competition Ahead and a Potential Shift at Red Bull
The upcoming 2026 Formula 1 season will introduce sweeping changes to technical regulations, creating an atmosphere of unpredictability and opportunity across the grid. No team has emerged as a clear frontrunner, amplifying the challenge for Hadjar as he steps into his new role. Red Bull is renowned for its fiercely competitive environment, and the so-called second driver curse has threatened many talented racers before him. At this pivotal moment, Hadjar faces a defining test—can he adapt rapidly enough to break the team’s difficult legacy for newcomers?
If Hadjar manages to handle the immense scrutiny and outshine expectations, he might finally upend the widely held belief that beating Verstappen as a Red Bull teammate is impossible. Success would not only bolster Hadjar’s reputation but could signal a new era at the team’s Milton Keynes headquarters, inspiring both Red Bull’s staff and fans worldwide.
Looking ahead, the Formula 1 community will closely watch Hadjar’s progress, as his performances could reshape narratives around Red Bull’s team dynamics and the sport itself. As the 2026 season approaches, anticipation is mounting—raising the stakes for Hadjar, Verstappen, and the entire paddock in the next chapter of Formula 1.
