Hadjar Apologizes to Lawson for Brazilian GP Clash, Cites Aggression

Isack Hadjar immediately apologized to teammate Liam Lawson after their last-lap clash at the Brazilian Grand Prix, admitting his attempt to overtake was "a bit aggressive." Despite the contact, both Racing Bulls drivers secured points, finishing seventh and eighth, respectively, but the incident highlighted the team's no-team-orders policy.

Why it matters:

This incident, though ultimately not detrimental to Racing Bulls' points haul in Brazil, underscores the fine line between aggressive racing and team harmony, especially in a sport where every point can be crucial for constructor standings and driver careers. It also sheds light on the internal dynamics within the Red Bull junior program, where drivers are often encouraged to race hard, even against teammates.

The Details:

• On the final lap of the Brazilian GP, Hadjar attempted an overtake on Lawson around the outside of Turn 1 while battling for seventh position.
• Hadjar admitted he "squeezed the sister car too much," leading to contact between the two Racing Bulls cars.
• Lawson had successfully made a one-stop strategy work, placing him under significant pressure from a group of nine cars behind him in the race's closing stages.
• Despite the clash, both drivers maintained their positions, with Lawson in seventh and Hadjar in eighth, securing valuable points for the team.
• Hadjar's Immediate Apology: Hadjar stated he "immediately jumped out of the car and came to apologise, because it was a bit aggressive." He reflected that looking back at the onboard footage, it appeared both drivers moved in one direction.
• Mistake Acknowledged: He acknowledged he "should have been a bit more patient and probably get him on the next straight, but I made a mistake."
• No Team Orders: When questioned about risking a double points finish for an overtake, Hadjar bluntly replied, "It's more points for me." He confirmed that his engineer encouraged him to "click to overtake" and that there were "no team orders at all." The team's policy allows them to "race each other freely as long as we keep it clean."
• Rookie's View on Risk: Hadjar, a rookie, clarified that he typically takes more margin when racing a teammate, stating, "I've never crashed my team-mates in my whole career. I do take a bit more margin. It's something you should do."

Looking Ahead:

While the immediate fallout was contained, this incident provides a glimpse into the competitive nature within Racing Bulls as they continue their fight for sixth in the constructors' championship. Hadjar's focus now shifts to upcoming races, though he expresses caution about the Las Vegas Grand Prix's suitability for their car.

• Hadjar is not optimistic about the Las Vegas Grand Prix, suggesting it won't suit the Racing Bulls car due to its slow-speed corners, kerb requirements, and long straights.
• He believes races like Qatar and Abu Dhabi will be more favorable for the team's car characteristics.
• The team will need to manage this internal dynamic carefully as they navigate the final races of the season, where every point can significantly impact their championship standing and financial bonuses.