The trajectory of Isack Hadjar to Red Bull Racing is a story marked by early promise, challenges, and ultimately, triumph. But perhaps the most insightful perspective comes from someone who knew it all along: his mother.
Hadjar's journey began in karting at the age of seven, showcasing a natural talent that quickly became evident. Progressing through the ranks, he made his single-seater debut in the French F4 Championship in 2019. A win at Spa-Francorchamps signaled his potential, and he finished as the second-highest rookie. The following year, he continued to impress in the same series, securing three wins and ultimately finishing third in the championship.
The step up to Formula Regional beckoned in 2021, with Hadjar competing in both the Asian and European championships. A part-time campaign in the F3 Asian series yielded multiple podiums. Simultaneously, he raced in the Formula Regional European Championship, winning in Monaco.
2022 marked a significant turning point, as Hadjar joined the Red Bull Junior Team and entered the FIA Formula 3 Championship. Racing with Hitech Grand Prix, he won the Sakhir Sprint Race and became a title contender, ultimately finishing fourth overall.
Despite the promising trajectory, Hadjar's initial foray into Formula 2 in 2023 proved challenging. Without any wins, questions arose surrounding his future. However, Red Bull maintained their faith in the young driver, providing him with opportunities in Formula 1 free practice sessions with AlphaTauri and the senior Red Bull team.
The decision to give Hadjar another shot in Formula 2 proved fruitful. Joining Campos Racing in 2024, he enjoyed a successful season, securing multiple wins and challenging for the title. Although he narrowly missed out on the championship, his performance earned him a Formula 1 seat with Racing Bulls for 2025.
His rookie season in 2025 was a mix of challenges and successes. A dramatic debut in Melbourne saw him crash on the formation lap. However, he bounced back, consistently reaching Q3 in the second half of the season and securing a podium finish at Zandvoort. He outscored his teammate Liam Lawson, solidifying his position within the Red Bull setup.
Ahead of the 2025 season finale in Abu Dhabi, Red Bull Racing announced that Hadjar would be promoted to the senior team in 2026, partnering with Max Verstappen. Reflecting on this opportunity, Hadjar expressed his excitement about joining a world championship-winning team and learning from Verstappen.
Looking ahead to 2026, Hadjar is focused on working closely with the team during the pre-season to prepare for the challenges ahead. While some suggest he may face an uphill battle as Verstappen's teammate, Hadjar is determined to prove himself and contribute to the team's success. His journey exemplifies the blend of talent, perseverance, and strategic support required to reach the pinnacle of motorsport.
