Why it matters: Isack Hadjar, now linked to a Red Bull F1 seat, revealed his deep fear of never reaching F1 after a challenging rookie Formula 2 season. His journey highlights the immense pressure and the critical role of support in junior categories.
The big picture: Hadjar, who finished fourth in F3 in 2022, progressed to F2 with Hitech. Despite a single podium and a 14th-place finish in his debut F2 year, he secured a better second season before his F1 promotion. He asserts his raw speed was always present, but the Hitech year was "an absolute nightmare."
What he's saying:
- "I think raw speed and talent has always been there... I didn’t learn how to drive faster in the last three seasons. It's not true."
- "I remember my year in Hitech in F2 was an absolute nightmare, and I had this moment where I thought ‘I’m never going to make it to F1.'"
Driving the news: His strong performance in the first 14 F1 rounds has fueled speculation about a potential Red Bull drive next year, possibly alongside Max Verstappen.
The crucial support: Hadjar credits Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko's unwavering belief and support during his tough times. "He kept believing and gave me a second chance, which I took," Hadjar noted, emphasizing the need for mental strength and trustworthy people.