French–Algerian driver Isack Hadjar gave a candid assessment of the Formula 1 paddock in a recent Canal+ interview, offering his blunt verdict on the environment within the sport. Speaking about his experience navigating the world of motorsports, Hadjar revealed why the intense financial pressure and social dynamics make F1 an unwelcoming place for genuine connections.
Achieving entry into Formula 1 requires more than just racing talent; the financial demands are enormous. With junior Formula categories costing millions annually, drivers need substantial sponsorship or backing to reach the sport. Hadjar’s path was bolstered by his signing with the Red Bull junior team in 2022, which facilitated his progression from Formula 4 through FRECA, Formula 3, and Formula 2, before finally earning a seat at F1’s Red Bull sister team, VCARB.
Hadjar’s Unfiltered View of Friendships in the F1 Paddock
During the interview, Hadjar was questioned about whether he sees opportunities to make friends while competing in the F1 paddock. He responded straightforwardly that the paddock does not feel like a place for forging friendships.
“Honestly, it’s not an environment that I like, the F1 paddock. It’s not a place where… For me it’s my workplace. I come, I do my work and I leave. My friends, I already have them, I don’t need it. I don’t need more friends. So no, but I can come across good people and why not? But that’s really not the goal.” – Isack Hadjar, F1 Driver
He emphasized the transactional nature of the paddock, highlighting the prevalence of financial influence and insincerity that shape relationships in the sport.
A Critical Look at the Culture and Financial Influence in Motorsport
Hadjar elaborated on what he dislikes most about F1’s environment, calling out the effects of excessive money, which he feels foster hypocrisy.
“Too much money, so too many hypocrites. That’s it. Going from F4 to FRECA to F3 to F2, I’ve seen plenty of them, sharks and it’s not a pretty environment. The only guys I respect are the guys from my team. It’s the mechanics, the engineers. I come, I work and the rest I couldn’t care less.” – Isack Hadjar, F1 Driver
This insight reflects his journey through multiple racing tiers, witnessing the competitive and often ruthless nature of the motorsport world. His respect lies with his immediate teammates—including engineers and mechanics—who he regards as the authentic individuals amidst a broader, sometimes disingenuous paddock atmosphere.
Perspectives on Social Media and PR Demands in Formula 1
Hadjar also shared his thoughts on the growing social media and public relations responsibilities that come with being an F1 driver, aligning somewhat with Red Bull star Max Verstappen’s known ambivalence towards PR obligations. In a separate discussion on the Fast and the Curious podcast, Hadjar expressed that such tasks do not define his goals in F1 but are part of the package he accepts to succeed.
“It’s definitely not an achievement. It’s not what I came for in Formula 1. But as long as I’m successful, honestly, [that’s] all that matters, so I’m happy.” – Isack Hadjar, F1 Driver
He further described his occasional confusion handling social media appearances, relying heavily on his team’s support behind the scenes.
“Sometimes, honestly, I’m just trusting my guys behind the camera because I have no clue what I’m doing. It’s quite funny at times. But sometimes I was like ‘what the hell is going on, guys?’ Sometimes I’m refusing to do stuff because it’s too – it just doesn’t sound right.” – Isack Hadjar, F1 Driver
Future Prospects and Team Dynamics
Rumors have connected Hadjar to a potential move to Red Bull’s main Formula 1 squad in 2026, with current junior driver Arvid Lindblad possibly advancing to F1 as well. Hadjar’s progress, supported by the Red Bull junior program, underscores his rising trajectory within motorsports. His pragmatic focus on work, respect for his dedicated teammates, and skepticism toward the broader paddock culture mark him as a distinctive voice amid drivers navigating the high-pressure, high-finance world of Formula 1.
Hadjar’s commentary sheds light on the harsh realities behind the glamour of racing’s top tier and suggests that, for some drivers, F1 is less a social community and more a high-stakes workplace defined by competition, money, and strategy rather than friendship or camaraderie.
"What do you dislike about this environnement ?"
I : "Too much money, so too many hypocrites […] I come, I do my work, and I couldn't care less about the rest." pic.twitter.com/IivmyANBBw
— riem (@hadjarology) October 3, 2025
