UPDATE: Isack Hadjar has officially secured a spot with Red Bull Racing, set to join four-time world champion Max Verstappen for the 2026 Formula One season. This announcement comes as Hadjar makes a significant leap from Racing Bulls, stepping in to replace Yuki Tsunoda, who will transition to a reserve role within the team.
Hadjar expressed his excitement, stating,
“I’m so grateful to Red Bull Racing for giving me the opportunity and trust to race at the highest level of Formula One. After all the hard work I have put in since joining the junior team, it’s such a great reward.”
During his 2025 rookie season, Hadjar has showcased remarkable talent, scoring points in 10 races and achieving a maiden podium finish at the prestigious Dutch Grand Prix. His performance has not gone unnoticed, as Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies praised him for demonstrating the raw speed essential for success in this sport. Mekies remarked,
“We believe Isack can thrive alongside Max and produce the magic on track.”
Hadjar will face the unique challenge of partnering with Verstappen, who is currently engaged in a fierce battle for the world title against McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix approaches this weekend. Since Verstappen’s debut in 2017, numerous drivers including Daniel Ricciardo, Pierre Gasly, and Sergio Perez have struggled to keep pace with the dominant champion.
Meanwhile, Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls, is set for changes as well. They will retain Liam Lawson and welcome Arvid Lindblad, who has made waves in Formula Two with two victories this season. Lindblad will be the only rookie on the grid when the season kicks off next year.
The decision to promote Hadjar reflects Red Bull’s commitment to nurturing talent capable of competing at the highest level. As the 2026 season draws closer, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this new partnership will unfold and whether Hadjar can rise to the challenge alongside one of the sport’s greatest talents.
Keep an eye on the developments surrounding the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the implications this announcement holds for the future of Formula One racing.
