Why it matters:
Isack Hadjar's stunning P4 at Zandvoort qualifying puts him in contention for a Red Bull A-team seat, potentially signaling the end of Yuki Tsunoda's tenure.
The big picture:
- The 20-year-old Racing Bulls driver impressed with remarkable composure and pace, surprising Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko. Marko praised Hadjar's resilience after overcoming power unit issues.
- This strong showing positions Hadjar as a leading candidate for the 2025 Red Bull seat. Yuki Tsunoda failed to reach Q3, qualifying 12th, prompting Sky expert Ralf Schumacher to suggest Tsunoda's time might be ending. Red Bull delays a decision on Tsunoda's future until September or October.
The warning:
- Despite Hadjar's ambition for a top team and title, Ralf Schumacher urges caution. He highlights the immense pressure of being Max Verstappen's teammate and suggests Hadjar could be a crucial leader for Racing Bulls.
Hadjar's ambition:
- Hadjar is undeterred, stating his goal is the A-team and competing for the championship, believing it's more realistic with a top team.
What's next:
- If Hadjar moves up, a Racing Bulls spot opens. Arvid Lindblad, currently impressing in Formula 2 with two wins, is a potential candidate.
- Hadjar faces Verstappen directly from P4 in the Dutch GP, an early test of his future challenge.