Red Bull Racing rookie Isack Hadjar has humorously suggested that Laurent Mekies taking over from Christian Horner as CEO and team principal might actually work out well for him, especially as rumors swirl about a possible future seat with Red Bull. This development follows Horner’s unexpected departure after Red Bull’s recent underwhelming performances, with Alan Permane stepping in to lead the sister team.
Hadjar’s Perspective on the Impact of Management Shift
When asked about how the leadership changes might affect his own progress, Hadjar indicated that his close collaboration with Permane means his day-to-day experience likely won’t shift much. He emphasized the technical relationship and continuity he shares with Permane.
No [it won’t change], because Alan was just below Laurent [in the hierarchy] for the last two years. I know it won’t change the team dynamic. I have to say, honestly, I think I worked more with Alan from a technical standpoint than with Laurent. Because he’s such a good engineer.
—Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing driver
Hadjar also downplayed the immediate significance of Horner’s exit for his role, focusing instead on the stability brought by Alan Permane.
Christian Horner leaving is major, but to be fair, it doesn’t really change much for me at the moment. Alan is someone I know really well. He was always quiet, you don’t see him often, but he’s a big part of the team so far. I think he’s the one, next to my race engineer, I’ve worked with the most. He’s the guy who takes the final decision on car setup. He’s been very close to Laurent.
Laurent has built something very solid over the last two years and now he’s just taking it. It doesn’t change anything to the team and to my approach.
—Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing driver
Potential Benefits of Mekies’ New Role for Hadjar’s Career
As with many drivers in Red Bull’s junior ranks, Hadjar’s ultimate goal remains securing a promotion to the main team. His positive rapport with Mekies could advantage him amid speculation about future Red Bull race seats, especially considering his strong start to the 2025 season.
We were really close together and he’s still around,
Hadjar noted about Mekies.
If I had to work with him, it would be easier, that’s for sure. We sound more familiar,
he continued jokingly.
So yeah, I would say so.
Hadjar added with a laugh that Mekies’ promotion is undoubtedly beneficial to him at this stage as he pushes through the season’s remaining twelve races.
Can’t hide it’s useful, that’s for sure. Twelve more races, so I need to keep pushing.
—Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing driver
You’re as good as your last race, all the time.
—Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing driver
Hadjar Reflects on Past Support within Red Bull’s Structure
Looking back, Hadjar explained that his path within Red Bull was shaped more closely by Helmut Marko than Christian Horner, with whom he had limited interaction.
I was always way closer to Helmut, it was always very brief with Christian. If I had to jump in his car, obviously I would spend time with him, but it was always about Helmut when I was progressing through the ranks,
Hadjar said, confirming he has yet to discuss the recent management changes directly with Horner.
Significance of Leadership Transition for Red Bull and Drivers
The shift with Mekies stepping into Horner’s role represents a significant moment for Red Bull Racing’s structure, though for drivers like Hadjar who work daily with Permane and other key team members, operational continuity seems assured. Hadjar’s existing relationships with senior leadership, notably Mekies and Permane, could strengthen his prospects within the Red Bull family as he aims for a Formula 1 race seat. As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on how these leadership adjustments influence team strategy and driver opportunities going forward.
