Isack Hadjar has expressed reservations about his readiness to step up to Red Bull’s main Formula 1 team if given the opportunity. Speaking before the Canadian Grand Prix, Hadjar admitted he does not feel prepared to make the jump, despite a strong start with Red Bull’s junior squad, Racing Bulls. His comments highlight the pressure and expectations faced by emerging talents aspiring to join the top tier of the sport.
Hadjar is one of six rookies debuting on the 2025 Formula 1 grid and has stood out by scoring 21 points in his first 10 races. His rapid adaptation has fueled speculation about a possible promotion to Red Bull Racing, especially as current senior driver Yuki Tsunoda has struggled to maintain consistent form after replacing Liam Lawson.
It’s a bit scary, but I wouldn’t feel ready,
Hadjar stated to Sky Sports when discussing a potential call-up.
So no, I’m not very ready.
Laurent Mekies Believes Every Driver Can Adapt Quickly to Faster Cars
Contrasting Hadjar’s self-assessment, Racing Bulls team principal Laurent Mekies maintains that drivers are always ready to handle a promotion to a more competitive machine. Mekies emphasizes the growth phase Hadjar is currently going through and insists readiness is part of a driver’s mindset when moving up in the sport.
He’s in a very important growth phase now,
Mekies told Sky Italia.
But a driver is always ready to get into a faster car.
Strong Endorsements From Red Bull’s Senior Leadership
Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s senior advisor and head of their driver programme, has been particularly impressed by Hadjar’s performance this season. Marko described Hadjar as a major surprise, praising his consistent pace and seemingly effortless driving style as unexpected given his relatively modest Formula 2 rookie season.
We knew he’s fast, but that he is so consistent, and that he is driving relatively easy, it’s also a surprise for us.
Marko’s belief in Hadjar’s potential was reaffirmed after the French driver secured a runner-up finish in the 2024 Formula 2 Championship, which helped pave the way for his Formula 1 debut.
Mekies acknowledged that Marko may have been the only figure within the Red Bull organization who anticipated such a swift and strong development. He described Hadjar’s current campaign as “extraordinary,” highlighting the young driver’s breakthrough moments.
Maybe only Helmut Marko expected all of this.
Hadjar’s Notable Results and What Lies Ahead
Hadjar’s best race finish so far this season has been sixth place in Monaco, complemented by four other finishes that earned him championship points. These results mark him as one of the most promising rookies on the grid.
While the internal debate about his readiness continues, Hadjar’s progress remains closely watched by both Red Bull and the wider Formula 1 community. The coming races will be crucial in determining if and when he may earn a call-up to Red Bull’s senior squad, potentially reshaping driver lineups and impacting team strategies moving forward.
