Hadjar Reveals Details of Marko Phone Call After Red Bull Promotion

Isack Hadjar has shared his initial reactions following the surprising announcement that he will race alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull in 2026. This promotion marks a significant milestone in his career, with Hadjar expressing his excitement about entering a new era of Formula 1.

Why it matters:

Red Bull's decision to promote Hadjar for 2026, as first reported by GPblog, underscores their long-term driver development strategy and their confidence in his potential. This move could signal a shift in the team's dynamic and offers Hadjar an unparalleled opportunity to prove himself at the pinnacle of motorsport, directly alongside a multiple world champion.

The Details:

• The Announcement: Hadjar confirmed that his promotion to Red Bull for 2026 was not a dramatic phone call but rather a direct conversation with Helmut Marko, where he was informed of the opportunity and the expectation to perform.
• Hadjar's Reaction: He described it as a "very good moment in my career," acknowledging that it's a reward for years of hard work. He sees it as the "beginning of a new journey" and believes the timing is excellent, coinciding with a "new era of Formula 1."
• Team Dynamics: Hadjar will take Yuki Tsunoda’s seat, while Liam Lawson will remain with Racing Bulls, paired with Arvid Lindblad. Tsunoda is currently the only one of the four drivers without a confirmed seat for 2026.
• Lawson's Situation: Liam Lawson, who had a brief stint in F1 earlier this season, was demoted to make room for Tsunoda. He will now have another chance to establish himself in F1 with Racing Bulls.

What's next:

With Hadjar's promotion confirmed for 2026, the focus will now shift to his performance in the coming seasons leading up to his Red Bull debut. His integration into the main team will be closely watched, especially given the significant technical regulation changes expected in 2026. How he performs alongside a formidable teammate like Max Verstappen will be a defining chapter in his burgeoning F1 career. Meanwhile, all eyes will be on Yuki Tsunoda to see where his future in Formula 1 lies.