Isack Hadjar on Red Bull promotion: 'It makes sense'

Isack Hadjar believes Red Bull's decision to promote him to the senior team for the 2026 season is a logical one, though he refutes the notion that it's solely due to similarities in driving style with Max Verstappen. The French rookie, set to become Verstappen's latest teammate, argues the upcoming regulation reset levels the playing field and presents an ideal opportunity for his debut.

Why it matters:

The second seat at Red Bull Racing has been a notoriously difficult place to succeed, with a string of drivers failing to match Verstappen's performance. Hadjar's promotion, timed with a major rules overhaul, represents a fresh strategy for the team and a critical test of whether a new generation can thrive alongside the reigning champion.

The details:

• Hadjar confirmed he learned of the promotion late, during the Qatar Grand Prix week, and views the timing as "very ideal" due to the 2026 regulation changes.
• He firmly rejected the idea that the current Red Bull car is inherently difficult for a teammate, stating, "Well, it's not true. It’s not the same car at all next year."
• The 21-year-old emphasized adaptation, noting his history of competing in different cars each year and expressing confidence in his ability to adjust to whatever direction the new car takes.
• On the topic of driving style, Hadjar pushed back against direct comparisons to Verstappen, calling both their styles "unique." He suggested the common ground is more about mindset than technique.
• The promotion was part of a broader Red Bull reshuffle that saw Arvid Lindblad and Liam Lawson take the Racing Bulls seats, resulting in Yuki Tsunoda's exit from the program.

What's next:

All eyes will be on Hadjar's adaptation to the top team and the new 2026 machinery. His success or struggle will be the ultimate verdict on whether Red Bull's 'makes sense' logic proves correct and if the regulatory reset truly offers a clean slate for a new driver pairing.