Red Bull confirms Hadjar stays alongside Verstappen for 2027

Red Bull has confirmed Isack Hadjar will remain as Max Verstappen's teammate for the 2027 season, locking in the team's driver line-up ahead of this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

Hadjar, returning to action in Baku after missing three races with a wrist injury, was promoted to Red Bull's senior team at the start of this year following a standout rookie season with Racing Bulls in 2025. He has made a solid start alongside the four-time world champion, with eight points finishes and a Monaco Grand Prix podium.

Why it matters:

After years of teammates struggling in Verstappen's shadow, Red Bull appears to have found stability with Hadjar. The confirmation follows Verstappen's own extension announced in August, keeping him at the team until the end of 2030.

The details:

• Team principal Laurent Mekies called the extension "an easy decision," praising Hadjar's composure and dedication since joining the team.
• Hadjar said he is "really excited to continue" and described driving for Red Bull alongside Verstappen as "a privilege."
• The Frenchman has spent extensive time at the factory working with his engineers on car development, earning respect across the organisation.

The big picture:

With Red Bull's senior line-up settled, attention turns to Racing Bulls and its 2027 driver choice.

• Red Bull junior Nikola Tsolov leads the F2 championship with three rounds remaining, making him a strong candidate for promotion.
• Incumbents Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad have both impressed this season, leaving Red Bull with a difficult decision.
• Lawson, who subbed for Hadjar over the past three rounds, is in his second full F1 season, while rookie Lindblad has scored ten points finishes from 14 rounds.

What's next:

Racing Bulls boss Alan Permane said there is no pressure to announce plans, describing the situation as "a luxury problem." If the current line-up stays, Tsolov could spend a year as reserve driver, a role currently held by Yuki Tsunoda.