Max Verstappen has spoken candidly about the characteristics he values most in a Formula 1 teammate, emphasizing professionalism and collaboration during races as crucial elements for a successful partnership. With frequent changes alongside Verstappen at Red Bull, the discussion about Max Verstappen F1 teammate traits remains timely as the team looks ahead to future line-ups.
The qualities Verstappen values in a teammate
Verstappen, a four-time world champion widely regarded among the best drivers in the history of Formula 1, shared that he prioritizes a constructive relationship on and off the racetrack, even if close friendship outside racing is not necessary. Over the years, many drivers—including Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, and Sergio Perez—have struggled with the unique challenge of sharing the Red Bull garage with Verstappen. According to Verstappen, the ideal teammate does not have to be a personal friend, but a professional, open, and collaborative figure in the paddock.
When reflecting on the challenges others have faced, Verstappen commented on the professional dynamic he expects from a teammate:
“Good in also developing the car with the team. Good understanding between the drivers. Friendly, funny, open-minded, not hiding things throughout the weekend between the two drivers.”
— Max Verstappen, Driver
He further outlined the importance of putting the team’s progress first, saying:
“So, yeah, in general, just trying to push the team forward. I think that’s the most important.”
— Max Verstappen, Driver
While he acknowledges camaraderie away from the track can be pleasant, Verstappen sees on-track benefits as top priority:
“If you are good friends off track, that’s a nice bonus but not necessarily needed, as long as you are very professional on track and it benefits the team.”
— Max Verstappen, Driver
Red Bull’s history with driver pairings and recent changes
The task of partnering Verstappen at Red Bull has proven daunting for several drivers. Pierre Gasly only completed half of the 2019 season as Verstappen’s teammate, while Alex Albon managed until the end of 2020 before stepping aside, both facing difficulties standing out within the team. Sergio Perez enjoyed some success, capturing five Grand Prix victories in four seasons, but a drop in performance in 2024 resulted in his departure before season’s end. Red Bull’s search for stability continued as Liam Lawson, brought into the role after Perez’s exit, received just two races before returning to Racing Bulls. Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda was moved from a racing seat to become a test and reserve driver by late 2025.
Isack Hadjar prepares for the challenge in 2026
Looking forward, Red Bull will give Isack Hadjar a shot as Verstappen’s teammate from the 2026 season, following Hadjar’s impressive rookie run with the Racing Bulls. Hadjar, aware of the immense difficulty of competing alongside Verstappen, has openly discussed his expectations and approach, sharing his mindset for taking on the role:
“If anything, the goal is to accept that I’m going to be slower the first month,”
Hadjar said to media in Abu Dhabi. — Isack Hadjar, Driver
He further touched on anticipating the emotional and competitive hurdles in trying to close the performance gap to Verstappen:
“It’s going to be very frustrating. But if you know, then you’re more prepared.”
— Isack Hadjar, Driver
Hadjar’s willingness to absorb early setbacks could prove valuable, especially as Formula 1 undergoes sweeping chassis and engine rule changes for the 2026 season. These new technical regulations, impacting every team, may provide a more level playing field for Red Bull’s new driver pairing.
The potential impact of new regulations and fresh faces
With change looming in both the Red Bull line-up and the broader Formula 1 landscape, individuals like Charles Leclerc, Yuki Tsunoda, George Russell, and others remain central to the sport’s competitive narrative. The new environment may help Verstappen and his future teammate thrive amid technological resets, with teams looking for open communication, adaptability, and a focus on collective progress—qualities identified as vital Max Verstappen F1 teammate traits. Whether Hadjar can break the cycle of quick teammate turnovers remains to be seen, but openness and professionalism, as Verstappen describes, will be essential moving forward.
