Isack Hadjar 'Practicing' for Key 2026 F1 Test

Isack Hadjar, the promising Racing Bulls driver, views his current rookie season as vital preparation for the significant technical regulation changes arriving in Formula 1 in 2026. This year's experience, particularly his third-place finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, is setting the stage for what he anticipates will be a pivotal year in his career.

Why it matters:

Hadjar's impressive form, contrasted with Yuki Tsunoda's struggles at Red Bull, positions him as a strong candidate for promotion to the senior Red Bull squad alongside Max Verstappen. His focus on adapting to and understanding the evolving F1 landscape, especially with the upcoming 2026 regulations, highlights a strategic approach to his career and potential future within the Red Bull family.

The details:

• Rookie Campaign Success: Hadjar has had a positive rookie season, capped by a notable third-place finish at the Dutch Grand Prix.
• Red Bull's Internal Shifts: The Red Bull organization has seen significant changes, with Laurent Mekies replacing Christian Horner and Alan Permane appointed as Team Principal at Racing Bulls. Hadjar, however, downplayed the impact of these changes.
• Leadership Appreciation: Hadjar expressed appreciation for Mekies and Permane's leadership, specifically noting their engineering backgrounds as a valuable asset for drivers. He described them as having a 'double asset'—being both businessmen and technicians.
• 2026 Regulation Focus: Both Mekies and Permane are tasked with leading their respective teams into F1's new era in 2026, which will introduce new chassis and power unit regulations.
• Driver Adaptation: The upcoming regulations will completely revamp how drivers set up and handle their cars. Hadjar is using his current rookie season to build crucial knowledge and refine his feedback skills ahead of this transformation.
  • He emphasized that next year's development will be 'huge' and that his feedback will be critical in pushing the team in the right direction. He believes 'your brain will make the difference' in 2026.

What's next:

Hadjar's strategic outlook for 2026 underscores the profound impact the new regulations are expected to have on driver performance and team development. His current 'practice' aims to give him an edge when these changes take effect, potentially solidifying his place in F1 and enhancing his chances for a top-tier seat at Red Bull. His ability to effectively communicate technical feedback will be paramount as teams navigate the significant shifts in car design and performance.