Isack Hadjar has addressed the growing speculation that he will join Red Bull’s Formula 1 team in 2026. The French driver is seen as a strong candidate to partner Max Verstappen next season if Red Bull decides not to renew Yuki Tsunoda’s contract. This discussion comes amid Hadjar’s impressive rookie campaign, which has attracted much attention within F1 circles.
Hadjar’s recent third-place finish at the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort has fueled predictions that he is ready for a move to Red Bull’s senior squad. Rumors from well-connected insiders suggest that team adviser Helmut Marko has implied to Hadjar that his promotion is likely, though these conversations have not yet resulted in any firm agreements. What remains clear is that while the outlook is encouraging, Hadjar must continue impressing Red Bull’s leadership beyond Marko to secure the seat for 2026.
Hadjar’s Perspective on Joining Verstappen and Red Bull
In a segment previewing a full interview to air on France’s Canal+, Hadjar discussed how he feels about the possibility of racing alongside Max Verstappen. Despite the pressure, he admitted the opportunity is thrilling.
“It scares me, but it’s also incredibly exciting!”
Hadjar stated.
He expressed enthusiasm about the potential teammate pairing, calling it “what a line-up!” The Frenchman acknowledged his career is still young but remains open to the chance.
“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,”
he added.
When asked if the rumors were spoiling any surprises, Hadjar responded,
“You’re not really spoiling, it’s the trajectory. It’s written.”
During Thursday’s media event in Baku, he was asked if he already knows his future plans. Smiling, he said, “I have an idea, but…”
Regarding how much he pays attention to the ongoing speculation, Hadjar was nonchalant.
“I don’t care. I really don’t care,”
he told attending journalists.
“I had, like, five days off at home and other things to do than scrolling on Instagram.”
Insights on Hadjar’s Performance and Red Bull’s Driver Decisions
Earlier in the week, PlanetF1.com reached out to Red Bull for clarity about the driver lineup for 2026. A team spokesperson emphasized that no decisions have been finalized.
“Laurent [Mekies] has gone on record to say we will take our time and are in the very lucky position of having 4 seats to fill,”
the representative said, confirming the team’s measured approach.
Hadjar, a 20-year-old rookie, has demonstrated strong resilience during his first season. After a difficult start with a crash on the formation lap in his debut race, he bounced back to show his potential. The French driver revealed he is focusing on improving his technical understanding of the car as the season progresses.
“I think from an engineering point of view, maybe,”
he said about his development focus.
“It’s such a technical world, I would say, as a rookie, it’s where I’m learning the most.”
He clarified that his driving skills are solid:
“Not really driving the car, I know how to do that.”
Home Crowd Support and Growing Popularity
Hadjar recently took part in a Red Bull promotional event at Magny-Cours, the French circuit that last hosted a Grand Prix in 2008. The driver thrilled local fans at this home venue, making it a memorable experience for him. Reflecting on the turnout, Hadjar commented,
“That was pretty awesome. I didn’t expect that many people!”
He described the event as his version of a home race and appreciated the strong attendance, which included appearances from former Red Bull and F1 figures Sébastien Buemi and Sébastien Loeb.
“So, yeah, that was basically my French Grand Prix, a kind of home race, so that was good.”
Noting how his following has steadily increased throughout the season, Hadjar joked,
“It’s a nice feeling, but the wrist is burning!”
while clearly enjoying the enthusiastic support.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season and Beyond
As Red Bull carefully considers its driver lineup for 2026, the emergence of Isack Hadjar as a leading talent positions him well for future opportunities. Though no contract has been signed, his consistent performances and growing maturity continue to impress key figures within the team, including Helmut Marko and Laurent Mekies.
Hadjar’s calm and focused stance amid swirling rumors demonstrates his readiness to face the challenges of F1’s top tier. Should he secure a seat alongside Max Verstappen, it would mark a significant step for the Frenchman and add a fresh dynamic to Red Bull’s dominant force in Formula 1. The driver’s technical progress and mental resilience suggest he is preparing for the intense competition ahead.
