Isack Hadjar, the promising rookie racing driver, has revealed mixed emotions about potentially joining Red Bull Racing alongside Max Verstappen. Speaking in the context of Red Bull’s ongoing challenges with its second driver, Hadjar expressed both excitement and apprehension about teaming up with the reigning world champion. With the 2025 season underway, Red Bull is searching for a stronger co-driver to Verstappen, and Hadjar’s performance has made him a notable candidate for promotion.
Red Bull’s Search for a Reliable Second Driver and Hadjar’s Rising Profile
Red Bull Racing has struggled this season to find a consistent partner for Max Verstappen, who remains the dominant point scorer for the team. In the first 16 races of 2025, Verstappen secured 230 of Red Bull’s total 239 points, illustrating his clear superiority. Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda, currently Verstappen’s teammate, has not been able to match the level of performance expected, often finishing outside the points. Although Tsunoda is contracted for the remainder of 2025, he is widely expected to lose his seat in 2026.
This situation positions Isack Hadjar, currently with the sister team Racing Bulls, as a prime contender to step up to Red Bull’s main lineup. The 20-year-old French driver has impressed in his rookie season, displaying consistency and skill that have caught the attention of the Red Bull leadership. His potential move represents a fresh chance for Red Bull to fill their driver gap and maintain competitiveness in the constructors’ championship.
Hadjar’s Honest Feelings About Racing Alongside Verstappen
Despite his success and the clear path toward promotion, Hadjar admits that the idea of racing alongside Max Verstappen is intimidating. He described the prospect as both frightening and thrilling, acknowledging the challenge of matching a driver widely regarded as the best in the world.
It scares me. It scares me, but it’s also incredibly exciting. Seeing myself team up with Max? Of course! And what a line-up.
— Isack Hadjar told Canal+
Hadjar’s openness about his fears highlights the pressure that comes with stepping into one of Formula 1’s most demanding seats. Yet, he also embraced the opportunity to compete against Verstappen head-to-head, viewing it as an incredible experience that could define his career.
Confidence in the Path Forward and Inevitable Promotion
The young driver expressed a strong conviction that his move to Red Bull Racing is inevitable, viewing his advancement as part of a preordained career trajectory. He stressed that his promotion isn’t a secret or surprise but rather a natural step aligned with his development and performance.
You’re not really spoiling, it’s the trajectory. It’s written.
— Isack Hadjar added
Hadjar’s belief in destiny underscores his readiness to face the challenges of racing at the highest level and competing directly with Verstappen for victories and possibly championships.
Hadjar’s Perspective on Racing Against the “Best Driver in the World”
Hadjar also reflected on what it would mean to race in the same car as Verstappen, describing it as a unique benchmark. Despite his rookie status, he welcomed the chance to measure his talents against the reigning champion, emphasizing equality in opportunity when given the same machinery.
Of course, it’s early in my career, but I may have this opportunity. You give me the same car as the best driver in the world, and he’s right next to me. I have the opportunity to compare myself to him, and I have the same chances as him.
— Isack Hadjar noted
This perspective reveals Hadjar’s hunger for growth and competitiveness, as well as his recognition of Verstappen’s current dominance in the sport.
The Stakes for Hadjar and Red Bull Moving Forward
The 2025 season has been impressive for Hadjar so far, and he is a strong contender for rookie of the year honors due to his consistent performances. However, transitioning to Red Bull’s top team will be a significant step up in pressure and expectations. The spotlight and comparisons with Verstappen will create an intense environment that tests Hadjar’s skills and mental resilience.
Red Bull faces pressure to maintain their competitive edge in a season where their car, the RB21, consistently trails behind rivals on track. Bringing in a talented driver like Hadjar could help alleviate the second driver issues that have persisted, offering a stronger teammate to Verstappen and more points towards the constructors’ battle.
How Hadjar adapts to this role and handles the mental challenges posed by Verstappen’s presence will be crucial both for his career and Red Bull’s success in the coming years. The team’s decision to promote Hadjar will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as it could shape the future dynamics of the sport’s top team.
Hadjar drops verdict on teaming up with Verstappen: ‘It scares me’:
— Isack Hadjar expressed mixed feelings about the prospect of joining Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing. Speaking to media, Hadjar revealed:
“It scares me.”
“It scares me, but it's also incredibly exciting.… pic.twitter.com/CeqNjqJwVR
— This is Formula 1 (@ThisIsFormu1a1) September 17, 2025
