Isack Hadjar Racing Bulls F1 journey reached a milestone with the recent announcement that he will partner Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing, starting in 2026. The motorsport community has been captivated by Hadjar’s rapid progression, as he attributes his swift ascent to the support and guidance provided by Racing Bulls and key figures within the Formula 1 sphere.
Hadjar’s Rapid Climb Through Formula 1 Ranks
The confirmation of Hadjar’s seat marks the conclusion of months of rumors and anticipation across the racing world. As he steps into the role previously held by Yuki Tsunoda—now transitioning into reserve and development duties for the team—the expectations surrounding the notorious second seat at Red Bull have only grown. This role has historically posed significant challenges, but Hadjar seems ready to make his mark.
Emerging from Red Bull’s notable junior program, Hadjar refined his racecraft with the Faenza-based team, leveraging their nurturing environment.
“I couldn’t have wished for a better team to start my F1 career with,”
Isack Hadjar remarked, underscoring his gratitude for the support he received during his rookie season. This mentorship has been pivotal for the young French driver, particularly in preparing him for the leap to one of the most scrutinized seats in Formula 1.
Pierre Gasly’s Influence on Hadjar’s Preparation
Another influential figure in Hadjar’s journey has been Pierre Gasly, a top talent who once occupied a Red Bull seat himself. Hadjar openly credited Gasly for smoothing his transition into the fast-paced pressures of Formula 1, revealing the value of peer-to-peer guidance behind the scenes.
Image of: Isack Hadjar
“I owe it to Pierre. We spent most of the winter together,”
Hadjar noted, recognizing the time Gasly invested in sharing insights and mental preparation. His increased self-assurance since then is clear, as Hadjar added,
“That’s why I adapted very quickly.”
Overcoming Early Hurdles, Gaining Confidence
The 2025 season saw Hadjar undergo a striking transformation. Where he had once seemed anxious and hesitant away from the circuit, he transformed into a serious contender behind the wheel. Early nerves, compounded by a rough start and a memorable crash during his first formation lap, posed challenges. However, Hadjar described how those setbacks shifted quickly as he began to trust his own abilities.
“I told myself this for a while and after the first couple of races, I was like, ‘yeah, OK, I got this. It’s going to be easy’,”
he shared, providing a window into his mindset as he settled into top-tier racing.
A defining moment came during the Melbournepractice session, which solidified Hadjar’s belief in his place among Formula 1’s elite.
“I was fast. I was like, ‘yeah, OK. Actually, I got this’,”
he reflected, speaking to his improved pace and readiness. His performance in Japan, where he achieved his first points finish, further demonstrated his capacity to meet the demands of the sport. Overcoming distraction and pressure, he rapidly earned a reputation as one of the grid’s most promising new drivers.
What Hadjar’s Future Holds at Red Bull Racing
As anticipation builds toward the 2026 season, motorsport fans and pundits are eager to see how Hadjar’s development under Racing Bulls and Red Bull Academy guidance will pay off alongside Max Verstappen, the reigning champion. The transition signifies not just a personal success for Hadjar but also the effectiveness of the Red Bull junior system in fostering talent. By securing his place at Red Bull Racing, Hadjar reflects the ongoing evolution of the sport’s next generation of stars.
The coming seasons will determine whether Hadjar can handle the immense expectations that come with partnering Verstappen and occupying Red Bull’s infamous second seat. With unwavering support from figures like Pierre Gasly and a proven ability to overcome adversity, Isack Hadjar stands at the threshold of a potentially illustrious Formula 1 career. The sporting world now watches as he embarks on this new chapter, optimistic that his Racing Bulls F1 story is only just beginning, promising excitement and fresh achievements on the horizon.
