Confident Hadjar states that he is "in it for the long run."
Isack Hadjar asserts that he is confident in his ability to endure Formula 1’s toughest teammate rivalry alongside Max Verstappen. The 21-year-old French-Algerian has emerged as one of the standout performers of 2026, having sidestepped the fate that befell many of Verstappen’s previous teammates, who often succumbed to the pressure at Red Bull Racing.
In an interview in French with Le Journal de Montreal, Hadjar confessed that he sometimes finds it hard to believe how swiftly his career has advanced. "There are moments when I have to pinch myself because I realize how challenging it was to reach Formula 1," he stated. "I think to myself: wow, what we’ve accomplished is truly incredible!"
Despite his outward confidence, Hadjar admitted to frequently questioning his own abilities. "That might be the impression I give, but I’m always self-reflecting," he explained. "I sometimes doubt myself. I’m only human."
"Of course, I put on a brave face in front of others. You shouldn’t display your feelings." Several of Verstappen’s past teammates, including Pierre Gasly, Alexander Albon, and Sergio Perez, have had significant struggles alongside him. However, Hadjar feels that the situation has changed. "Times have shifted," he remarked. "The team has embraced a new philosophy."
"There are new individuals and new regulations. Ultimately, it’s working out well." The young driver also acknowledged new Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies for aiding in his adjustment after the departure of Christian Horner.
Nevertheless, Hadjar stresses that he is realistic about the challenge of directly competing with Verstappen. "I wasn’t thrust into this position by mere chance," he stated. "Having Max Verstappen as a teammate is significant. You must remain humble. There’s a lot to learn from him."
Yet, the Frenchman ended with a firm message for anyone anticipating another downfall for Red Bull. "I’m in it for the long run," Hadjar asserted. "I have no doubts about that."
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Confident Hadjar states that he is "in it for the long run."
Formula 1 | Isack Hadjar expresses confidence in his ability to handle the toughest teammate challenge in Formula 1 alongside Max Verstappen. The 21-year-old (…)
