Isack Hadjar Jokes He Ran a 'Deliveroo' Service Towing Max Verstappen at Spa

Isack Hadjar has explained the "very difficult" process of giving Max Verstappen a tow during Belgian Grand Prix qualifying, joking that he was running a "Deliveroo" service for the four-time world champion. With Verstappen facing a 30-place grid penalty, Red Bull deployed Hadjar to provide a slipstream through Spa's long final sector, securing second on the grid.

Why it matters:

The tow proved decisive, with Verstappen admitting he would have managed only sixth or seventh without it. Beyond the team tactics, Hadjar revealed how modern power unit software complicates even routine cooperation, with the Frenchman also set to start from 21st after his own penalty.

The details:

• Red Bull sent Hadjar out ahead of Verstappen in Q3 to provide a tow through the final sector, vaulting the Dutchman up to second on the grid.
• Engine confusion: Hadjar explained that lifting off after Turn 14 left the power unit software "confused" because the system expected continuous throttle, making it difficult to hold his speed.
• On the first Q3 attempt, Hadjar had too much power and pulled away; on the second run, he didn't have enough, forcing him to manage the gap while still offering a draft.
• Reflecting on the arrangement, Hadjar quipped to Viaplay: "He decides where he wants it delivered, and I deliver it. It's like Deliveroo."

What's next:

Both drivers will start from the back row on Sunday, with Verstappen officially serving his penalty and Hadjar dropping to 21st after his own changes. The strategy now shifts to damage limitation, though Verstappen's qualifying pace suggests a strong recovery drive through the field at Spa is well within reach.