Hadjar ready for 'frightening' task of being Verstappens teammate

Published: Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 10:32 am

Hadjar Eyes Red Bull Seat, Acknowledges Verstappen Challenge

Formula 1 driver Isack Hadjar is positioning himself for a potential promotion to the Red Bull Racing team for the 2026 season. The young Frenchman, currently racing for Racing Bulls, is considered a frontrunner for the coveted second seat, particularly if the team decides not to retain Yuki Tsunoda.

Hadjar's performance this season has been solid, though his advantage over teammate Liam Lawson has been narrow. Despite Lawson outscoring him in the last ten races, Hadjar's podium finish at Zandvoort has kept him in contention. The 20-year-old represents a unique opportunity for Red Bull, as he is the only junior driver yet to be tested at the main team. This presents a fresh start for team leaders Laurent Mekies and Helmut Marko as they plan for the 2026 season.

Hadjar is keenly aware of the challenge that awaits him, should he secure the Red Bull seat. He acknowledges the "frightening" prospect of being teammate to Max Verstappen, widely considered one of the sport's top drivers. However, Hadjar embraces the challenge, viewing it as an opportunity to compete against the best and showcase his abilities. He emphasizes his ambition to fight for top positions and prove his worth. While he acknowledges the pressure, Hadjar expresses confidence in his season's performance, suggesting that one weekend's outcome is unlikely to significantly alter the team's decision.

BNN's Perspective:

The potential pairing of Hadjar and Verstappen would undoubtedly be a compelling storyline for the 2026 season. While the prospect of facing Verstappen is daunting, it also presents a significant opportunity for Hadjar to elevate his career. The decision will likely hinge on Hadjar's continued development and consistency, as well as Red Bull's assessment of their overall team strategy.

Keywords: Isack Hadjar, Red Bull, Formula 1, Max Verstappen, Racing Bulls, Yuki Tsunoda, Liam Lawson, Laurent Mekies, Helmut Marko, 2026 season, F1 driver, team mate, promotion, Zandvoort, podium

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