Hadjar Navigates F1 Path with Caution Amid Talk of Red Bull Promotion
Isack Hadjar, driver for Racing Bulls, has expressed reservations about stepping up to Red Bull’s Formula 1 team, stating, "I don’t feel ready" for the transition. The Frenchman, currently ranked ninth in the drivers’ championship, has accumulated 21 of Racing Bulls’ 28 points this season, solidifying his position as one of the standout talents in 2025.
With lead driver Max Verstappen narrowly avoiding a race ban due to penalty points, speculation surrounding Hadjar’s promotion has intensified. However, at a press conference prior to the Canadian Grand Prix, the 22-year-old emphasized his commitment to furthering his development in the junior team. "I think it’s good to take experience where I’m at," he noted, highlighting his enjoyment in learning and mastering the car he currently drives.
Hadjar also acknowledged the challenges faced by previous Red Bull drivers, Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, suggesting that a premature promotion could be detrimental to his career. "It’s fair to say that," he said, indicating awareness of the pressures in the second seat at Red Bull. His curiosity about racing alongside Verstappen remains, as he stated, "I’m just curious about being next to Max."
When discussing what he feels is lacking for his readiness, Hadjar pointed out the need for experience with a more challenging car setup. "So far, my cars have been very consistent," he said, indicating a desire to tackle adverse conditions that test a driver’s skill. He added, "Understanding what an F1 car needs to go faster… is an area for improvement."
As the season progresses, Hadjar’s focus remains on honing his skills at Racing Bulls, reinforcing his commitment to long-term development in pursuit of a potential future with Red Bull Racing.
