Hadjar Eyes 2026 Red Bull Seat, Rules Out 2025 Move

Racing Bulls rookie Isack Hadjar has made it clear: a promotion to Red Bull Racing is off the table for 2025, but 2026 presents an "interesting" prospect due to Formula 1's major regulation overhaul. Fresh from his first F1 podium at Zandvoort, Hadjar is considered a strong contender for a future Red Bull seat alongside Max Verstappen.

Why 2026 Matters

Hadjar's calculated approach signals a strategic long-term vision. The 2026 season's sweeping technical reset offers a unique opportunity, as all teams will field next-generation cars, effectively leveling the playing field. This reset period is ideal for a driver to join and help shape a new car's development.

Hadjar's View

Speaking at Monza, Hadjar dismissed immediate aspirations for 2025, stating:

• No Rush for 2025: "To be honest... I don't see the point of doing that [joining Red Bull] right now." He emphasized his focus on consolidating his rookie season.
• '26 Offers a Fresh Start: Regarding 2026, he noted, "It's a brand new start for the team... There won't be this talk of the second car thing... You will be in a phase where you need to direct the car into the right direction. So no, I think this is actually interesting."

No Official Talks Yet

Despite Red Bull's recent driver changes (Sergio Perez's departure, Liam Lawson's 2025 signing, and Yuki Tsunoda's move to the senior team), Hadjar confirmed no discussions have occurred with Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko or Racing Bulls team principal Laurent Mekies.

• "Me, personally, I haven't [had any conversations]. Yeah [I do expect them to start soon], but to be honest, I'm not in a rush."

Hadjar's impressive rookie season places him 10th in the standings with 37 points. His podium in the Netherlands underscored his potential. His patience suggests a careful timing of career moves, aiming to align with F1's next-generation cars in 2026. This strategic patience could position him as a central figure in Red Bull's long-term future.