Isack Hadjar says he has the best timing he could have asked for to move up to Red Bull, thanks to the new regulations that are being introduced in 2026.
Red Bull opted to drop Yuki Tsunoda at the end of 2025, promoting Hadjar after an impressive rookie season at Racing Bulls. While the second seat alongside Max Verstappen has been a tough opportunity for multiple drivers – including Tsunoda, Liam Lawson and Sergio Perez – over the past 18 months, Hadjar says the timing of his move reduces a number of challenges his predecessors faced.
“To get to Red Bull, I had to do my best here [at Racing Bulls],” Hadjar said. “There wasn’t much attention paid at what the big boys were doing.
“But now, obviously, the focus point is changing, and I can’t wait to get to MK (Milton Keynes) and start working with the guys through January, February. It’s not going to be fun, but I believe it’s where I’m going to make the difference, because the car is not built yet. And there’s one tool out there, it’s the sim. So there’s a lot to do. I can allow myself more holidays, but what’s the point?
“It’s the best timing by far … It’s a new car. It’s not like Max knows the car, right? It all starts from scratch. I feel very, very lucky in the way I’m coming to Red Bull. It’s going to be very beneficial, and if the car has to go in one direction, then I’ll be here as well. And maybe it’s from my input. So I’m excited.”
The Frenchman has already stated he needs to temper his own expectations alongside Verstappen next season, but he also hopes the environment will allow him to learn from the four-time world champion so early in his career.
“Honestly, I think I’m very lucky I arrive, I would say, in better conditions,” he said. “Laurent [Mekies, team principal] is going to be there. I’ve worked with him already, so very familiar faces. Honestly, I’m excited.
“[Success would be] fighting for wins, being there every weekend. To be the first driver in a while to be doing a really great job next to Max…
“It’s hard to realize. It’s not just Red Bull, but it’s just being teammates with Max. I’m so grateful because I’m just 21 and I get to see what the highest level in the world is at such a young age. I’m very lucky.”
