Isack Hadjar, Red Bull's new Formula 1 driver, admits his promotion to the senior team alongside world champion Max Verstappen still feels 'weird'. The 20-year-old French-Algerian, promoted from Racing Bulls, will make his debut at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix.
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull’s new Formula 1 driver, admits his promotion to the senior team alongside world champion Max Verstappen still feels ‘weird’. The 20-year-old French-Algerian, promoted from Racing Bulls, will make his debut at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix.
What did Hadjar say about the promotion?
In exclusive comments to Motorsport.com, Hadjar said: ‘The promotion still feels a bit weird to me. I mean, I’m here at Red Bull, next to Max, and it’s a dream come true. But I realize it will take some time to feel like I truly belong.’ He added: ‘I’m very grateful for the opportunity, and I’m working hard to prove I deserve it.’
How did Hadjar rise through the ranks?
Hadjar joined the Red Bull Junior Academy at a young age and quickly progressed through the junior categories. In his first season with Racing Bulls (Red Bull’s sister team), he delivered impressive performances that caught the eye of team principal Christian Horner, leading to his promotion to fill the vacant seat alongside Verstappen.
What challenges await Hadjar?
Joining Red Bull means working under immense pressure, especially as the team has struggled to find a suitable teammate for Verstappen since Daniel Ricciardo’s departure. Several drivers have failed to match the Dutchman’s pace. Hadjar acknowledges this: ‘I know expectations are high, but I’ll focus on my work and development. I can’t think about pressure, only performance.’
When will Hadjar’s first race be?
Hadjar will make his Red Bull race debut at the 2025 season opener in Australia. Arab fans, especially in the Gulf, are eagerly watching his progress, as his Algerian heritage makes him one of the most prominent Arab faces in Formula 1 today.
Will Hadjar succeed alongside Verstappen?
History shows that Verstappen’s teammates face a daunting task. However, Hadjar possesses talent and confidence, and has shown in the junior categories an ability to adapt quickly. The question remains: can he withstand the pressure at Red Bull? The coming months will reveal the answer.
How does Hadjar view his future?
Hadjar concludes: ‘I’m here to make a name for myself, not just as Verstappen’s teammate, but as a driver capable of competing. I’ll work hard to make everyone proud.’
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Isack Hadjar?
Isack Hadjar is a 20-year-old French-Algerian Formula 1 driver who joined Red Bull as Max Verstappen's teammate after impressing with Racing Bulls.
Why does Hadjar feel the promotion is 'weird'?
Hadjar admits he still has to pinch himself to believe he is part of Red Bull, and needs time to adjust to working alongside Verstappen under high pressure.
When is Hadjar's first race with Red Bull?
Hadjar will make his Red Bull debut at the 2025 season-opening Australian Grand Prix.
What challenges does Hadjar face at Red Bull?
Hadjar must cope with high expectations and the pressure of being Verstappen's teammate, a role that has proven difficult for previous drivers.
Sources
- Motorsport.com — Isack Hadjar admits Red Bull F1 promotion still feels "weird"
