The CEO of Racing Bulls states that Hadjar is not prepared for a promotion.

      "He should become familiar with the environment here until the conclusion of 2026."

      The CEO of Red Bull’s second Formula 1 team, Racing Bulls, has urged the energy drink company to keep Isack Hadjar in the junior cockpit for the time being. With Max Verstappen facing a potential race ban, De Limburger reports that Red Bull Racing has prepared a contingency plan in case Yuki Tsunoda requires a temporary teammate on short notice. "In the unlikely scenario that Verstappen is suspended, Red Bull will call up one of the Racing Bulls drivers for a race," stated correspondent Erik van Haren. This could be Liam Lawson, who was demoted by Red Bull Racing after two significantly uncompetitive races this year, or the impressive rookie Hadjar. Van Haren also mentioned, "This would then create an opening for Japanese driver Ayumu Iwasa in the sister team." Some speculated that Arvid Lindblad, whose super license application will soon be reviewed by the FIA despite him being just 17, might be a preferable choice over Hadjar. However, De Limburger reports that "Red Bull maintains it will not utilize Lindblad. The exemption request submitted to the FIA was made weeks ago and is distinct from any potential suspension for Verstappen." Red Bull's leaders Christian Horner and Dr. Helmut Marko have praised the 20-year-old Frenchman’s performances thus far in 2025, but Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer argues that Hadjar requires additional time. "For heaven’s sake, don’t take this talent away from us too early," the Swiss newspaper Blick quotes Bayer as saying. "He should be learning here until the end of 2026. Until then, we must keep him restrained!" 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg concurs, labeling Verstappen a "teammate killer" who could jeopardize Hadjar’s otherwise bright future. "If I were Hadjar, should Red Bull even hint at a promotion, I would certainly decline," he stated. "He’s performing excellently with the Racing Bulls right now and is in an advantageous position. If I were in his shoes, I would promptly refuse and say, 'No chance.'"