Isack Hadjar reacts to Red Bull promotion: “I’m ready to race alongside Max Verstappen in 2026”
After months of speculation, it is now official: Isack Hadjar will line up alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing in 2026. The 21-year-old Frenchman could barely hide his emotion when the news broke.
“I’m so grateful to Oracle Red Bull Racing for the opportunity and the trust they’ve shown in me,” Isack Hadjar said. “This is the dream I’ve had since I was a child.”
A breakthrough rookie year
Reflecting on his debut season with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, Hadjar called 2025 a defining chapter: “This year has been incredible. I’ve learned so much and scored my first podium. There were plenty of highs and lows, but Red Bull kept believing in me the whole time.”
He credited the team for his technical and mental growth: “They helped me become a better driver and a better person. The support has been everything. I feel I’ve arrived at the right moment – I’m ready to step up to Red Bull Racing and I’m happy they feel the same way.”
Learning from the best – but mind the Max Verstappen effect
Hadjar is genuinely excited about sharing a garage with the dominant force of the era: “Working with the best and learning from Max is something I can’t wait to do.”
The statement radiates respect and hunger, yet history sends a quiet warning. Every driver who has partnered Verstappen at the senior team – Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Sergio Pérez – has struggled to match him and eventually been moved on. For Isack Hadjar, adapting quickly to the RB22 and the intense internal benchmark will be crucial if he is to avoid becoming the next cautionary tale.
Still, the smile on his face says it all: right now, the dream is alive – and he is determined to make it last.
Leave a Reply