Marko has not yet talked to Isack Hadjar about 2026.

Marko has not yet talked to Isack Hadjar about 2026.

      "I pay no attention to the rumor mill."

      Dr. Helmut Marko has yet to outline his upcoming plans for Isack Hadjar, the highly talented 20-year-old Formula 1 newcomer. Hadjar entered the paddock this year not only with impressive abilities but also with a strong background—his father Yassine is a well-regarded PhD and senior researcher in quantum physics.

      "I’m under a lot more pressure," Hadjar, who is of French-Algerian descent, remarked to Bild newspaper. "My father’s job is more complicated as it’s one of the most challenging in the world, but he has the luxury of making mistakes and correcting them. That’s not an option in Formula 1. For me, taking risks is always a factor—something my parents aren’t very keen on."

      As for his mother, Randa Hadjar, while she may not completely approve, she is very supportive and acts as Isack’s manager. "She’s more involved this year," Hadjar shared. "She’s like my boss in both my personal and professional life. Naturally, I’ve been following her advice for a long time, but now I’m applying the same approach in Formula 1. She accompanies me to around 75 percent of the races. We make a great team."

      This team could potentially rise from Red Bull's junior team, Racing Bulls, to the main stage at Red Bull Racing next year, especially considering Yuki Tsunoda’s current struggles alongside Max Verstappen. Team advisor Marko, aged 82, has not concealed that Hadjar is the frontrunner for 2026.

      "I pay no attention to the rumor mill," Hadjar stated. "If you aren’t completely focused on the present, you won’t be part of these speculations for long. Only successful drivers are connected to the top teams. I’m aware of what the media is saying, but it doesn’t provide me with any sense of achievement or validation. Honestly, it can be quite bothersome."

      Some believe that Hadjar—or any driver—should avoid sharing a cockpit with Verstappen at all costs, as the four-time world champion has earned a reputation as a career destroyer. However, Hadjar seems open to the challenge. "Every young driver in the Red Bull academy aspires to make the leap to Formula 1 and then to Red Bull Racing," he noted. "I’m no different. I’m not in Formula 1 just to participate; I aim to achieve the utmost here. If I had been given a McLaren, I would have been confident enough to say I wanted to be the first rookie to become world champion. Winning the championship is more viable when you’re part of one of the top teams."

      However, when asked if Marko has broached the topic of 2026 yet, Hadjar shook his head. "He’s pleased with my performance, and we have discussions, but not about this particular topic."

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Marko has not yet talked to Isack Hadjar about 2026.

Formula 1 | Dr. Helmut Marko has not yet spoken about his future plans for Isack Hadjar with the exceptionally talented 20-year-old rookie. Hadjar joined (…)