Hadjar reflects on 'unfortunate' crash in Barcelona pre-season testing

Isack Hadjar's first official test with the Red Bull RB22 was a mix of promising speed and an unfortunate incident, as the French driver crashed on a wet track but still gained valuable insights into the new 2026 car. The rookie topped the timesheets on his first day before a mistake in tricky conditions highlighted the ongoing learning curve.

Why it matters:

Pre-season testing is a critical period for drivers, especially rookies, to adapt to new machinery and build confidence. A crash can disrupt a team's program and shake a driver's momentum, but how both parties respond offers an early indicator of resilience and focus for the season ahead.

The details:

• Hadjar's test began strongly, leading the times on the opening day while completing a solid number of laps in the new RB22.
• The incident occurred on his second day during a switch from wet to intermediate tires in the final corner, causing a loss of control.
• Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies downplayed the crash, attributing it to very tricky track conditions and calling it "part of the game," despite the extra repair work required for the mechanics.
• The team's schedule was ultimately unaffected, with Max Verstappen able to run the car on the final day of testing.

The big picture:

Beyond the crash, Hadjar's primary takeaway was his first experience with the radically different 2026-spec Formula 1 cars. He noted the new generation feels more predictable and straightforward than its predecessor, with generally less aerodynamic load. He also highlighted the increased scope for driver input and adjustment on the power unit side, suggesting a different driving style is required.

What's next:

Hadjar emphasized that the learning process is continuous and that preparation for the season is not yet complete. The data and experience from Barcelona will be crucial as he and Red Bull refine the car's setup. His ability to move past the incident and extract positive learnings will be tested when the competitive season begins.