Red Bull's Mekies details expectations for Isack Hadjar ahead of 2026 move

Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies has outlined the team's expectations for Isack Hadjar as he prepares to partner Max Verstappen in 2026, emphasizing a focus on continuous development over immediate, specific results. The French rookie impressed in his debut season with Racing Bulls, securing a podium and frequent points finishes, which Mekies describes as an "unbelievable" starting point.

Why it matters:

Hadjar's promotion to the senior Red Bull team represents a significant test of the team's driver development philosophy. His ability to grow alongside the sport's dominant force, Verstappen, will be a crucial storyline for 2026, as Red Bull looks to build a stable, competitive lineup for the future beyond its current star.

The details:

• Mekies praised Hadjar's "outstanding" starting point in January 2025 and his rapid development throughout the season, noting he was "making stuff in the car that he was not doing three races before."
• Red Bull's expectation is not tied to a specific on-track result or benchmark against Verstappen in 2026. Instead, the priority is for Hadjar to continue his trajectory of growth and learning.
• Mekies framed the move not as a final destination but as "another start" in a long-term journey, expecting development to continue into his second, third, and fourth years with the team.

What's next:

The pressure will be on Hadjar to adapt to the top team while maintaining his upward development curve. The 2026 season will reveal if he can handle the immense challenge of being Verstappen's teammate and solidify his place as a key part of Red Bull's long-term plans.