Hadjar Praises Predictable Red Bull Ford Power Unit Debut

Isack Hadjar topped the unofficial timing sheets in Barcelona, marking a successful debut for the Red Bull Ford Powertrains project. The Frenchman completed a marathon 107 laps in the RB22, providing early positive feedback on the driveability of the new power unit despite the sweeping regulation changes for 2026.

Why it matters:

This test represents a critical milestone for Red Bull as they transition to their own in-house power units. A smooth first run with solid reliability and a familiar feeling for the driver suggests the team is on the right track to challenging established engine manufacturers when the new regulations take effect.

The details:

• Milestone Achievement: The session marked the first official track miles for Red Bull Ford Powertrains. Hadjar described the day as "productive" and "impressive" given the lack of major issues on the first shakedown.
• Driver Feedback: Hadjar noted the power unit feels "pretty decent" and not far removed from current engines regarding upshifts and downshifts. This continuity is vital for adapting to the new electrical deployment focus.
• 2026 Car Dynamics: The rookie highlighted that the new generation of cars generates less downforce and is "more predictable" than the current grid.
  • He described the handling as "easier to play around with," offering a more straightforward driving experience at the limit.
• Increased Complexity: While the driving dynamics are simpler, the cockpit workload has increased. Drivers now manage Active Aero, Overtake Mode, and manual energy recharge settings, adding a strategic layer to the driving style.

What's next:

As testing continues, the focus will shift from reliability checks to performance optimization. Hadjar’s early confidence provides a strong foundation, but the real test will be extracting maximum performance from the new power unit and aero systems as the team ramps up its program.