Although there are no immediate plans to replace Yuki Tsunoda with Isack Hadjar at Red Bull this season, the possibility has sparked debate among experts. Nico Rosberg strongly advised Hadjar against joining Red Bull prematurely, warning that such a move might jeopardize his career progression. The focus on Isack Hadjar Red Bull risk has intensified as the team struggles in the Constructors’ Championship despite driver changes.
Red Bull replaced Liam Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda early in the season, yet the shift has not improved their team standing. Max Verstappen remains the only Red Bull driver consistently delivering results, single-handedly holding fourth place for the team.
Assessing the Current Performance of Red Bull Drivers
Max Verstappen, who recently won his third Grand Prix of the season at Monza, has amassed 230 of Red Bull’s total 239 points. In contrast, Yuki Tsunoda has contributed just nine points over 14 races, struggling significantly in the RB21 car. As a result, Tsunoda ranks 19th overall, making him the lowest-ranked among Red Bull-affiliated drivers.
Liam Lawson holds a slightly better position, four places ahead of Tsunoda with 20 points this season. Meanwhile, Isack Hadjar has impressed by breaking into the top half of the standings, scoring 38 points after his podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix.
Due to Hadjar’s strong performances, speculation about him replacing Tsunoda persists, though the exact timing remains unclear.
Team Principal Laurent Mekies Comments on Driver Changes
Before the Monza Grand Prix, team principal Laurent Mekies was questioned regarding Hadjar’s potential mid-season promotion to Red Bull. Mekies responded cautiously, affirming that they intend to maintain stability among their drivers through the season.
“I think the short answer is yes, I think we made it clear, very public, we have time with our driver decision. We have enough drivers in the driver programme to cover quite a few scenarios for next year. We don’t have a reason to rush.” —Laurent Mekies, Red Bull Team Principal
He also added,
“No, we do not plan to change during the season.” —Laurent Mekies, Red Bull Team Principal
This steady stance may offer Hadjar some relief, but Nico Rosberg cautions that a late move to Red Bull could have adverse effects on the 20-year-old’s development.
Nico Rosberg on the Risks of Joining Red Bull Mid-Season
Speaking on Sky F1, 2016 World Champion Nico Rosberg advised against Hadjar accepting a mid-season promotion, comparing the potential move to a career risk too large to take lightly. When asked his view on joining Red Bull under pressure, Rosberg was clear.
“I would say, ‘No, I’m not doing it, no way, try and force me’.” —Nico Rosberg, 2016 World Champion
Pressed about accepting such a move if it were the only option, he remained firm:
“‘I don’t care. No, I’m not doing it. What are you gonna force me there? Like you’re gonna drag me there? No, I’m not going really’.” —Nico Rosberg, 2016 World Champion
He emphasized the danger involved, saying,
“Do you know how risky that is? You know how many careers almost got destroyed there in the list? You know how long the list is?”
Rosberg highlighted that Yuki Tsunoda’s career shows the risk.
“At Racing Bulls he was fine, he was doing well, everything was okay.” —Nico Rosberg, 2016 World Champion
Jamie Chadwick Warns of the Challenges Faced by Young Drivers in Red Bull
Guest pundit Jamie Chadwick echoed Rosberg’s concerns, noting the difficulty of competing against a driver of Max Verstappen’s caliber in the RB21, a car seemingly tailored only to Max’s unique style. Chadwick explained that while Hadjar might want to refuse a sudden promotion, team orders may leave him no choice.
She commented on the advantages of continuing development within the Racing Bulls team, pointing out that Hadjar still has many circuits to experience, which are vital for growth.
“But equally, I don’t think he can say no. His boss telling him, ‘No, you’re in’, and he’s got to do it.” —Jamie Chadwick, Guest Pundit
When discussing drivers’ desire to test themselves against the very best, Chadwick cautioned:
“Yes, but at the right time, and maybe in this early stage it can be a very, well we’ve seen, a chalice… What’s the saying? A poisoned chalice, that’s the one.” —Jamie Chadwick, Guest Pundit
Implications for Isack Hadjar’s Career Path
The tension surrounding Isack Hadjar Red Bull risk underscores the precarious nature of young drivers stepping into high-pressure roles too soon. While joining Red Bull might seem like a dream opportunity, the example of Yuki Tsunoda’s struggles demonstrates how such a move can hinder growth rather than foster it.
Remaining with the Racing Bulls for now provides Hadjar a valuable chance to gain experience on less familiar circuits like Las Vegas and Singapore, essential for his long-term success. With Red Bull’s current driver lineup expected to remain until the end of the season, Hadjar’s patient development may be the safer course.
Looking ahead, decisions on driver placements will weigh heavily on performance and strategic considerations, meaning Hadjar’s progression to a Red Bull seat could come with significant challenges if rushed.
