Hadjar Warned Not to Race Verstappen as Red Bull Teammate
Isack Hadjar has been promoted to Red Bull Racing but warned not to try racing Max Verstappen immediately. Team officials advise the rookie to focus on his own performance amidst the immense pressure of the top team.
Isack Hadjar has been told explicitly not to try and "race" Max Verstappen when he steps up to Red Bull Racing this season. Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer advised the 21-year-old French-Algerian driver that attempting to beat the three-time world champion immediately would be "the wrong thing" to do, urging him instead to focus on his own development within the high-pressure environment.
Why it matters:
Red Bull has cycled through six teammates in Verstappen's ten-year tenure, struggling to find a stable second driver who can contribute to the team's success without causing internal friction. Sergio Perez came closest but eventually fell away. Hadjar's promotion represents the latest attempt to find the perfect foil for their superstar, and his ability to manage the psychological and professional demands of the role will be crucial for the team's stability.
The Details:
- Team Philosophy: Bayer emphasized that Red Bull does not view its drivers as competitors against one another. The internal focus is on building both drivers up, a mindset Bayer believes will help Hadjar concentrate on his own performance rather than engaging in a futile battle with Verstappen.
- The Pressure of the Front: Bayer highlighted the drastic difference in atmosphere between the midfield and the top tier. He noted that drivers outside the top 10 might as well "take a coffee mug" before the start, whereas those at the front are constantly circled by media, sponsors, and VIPs.
- Preparation and Background: Despite the daunting task, Bayer expressed full confidence in Hadjar. The rookie impressed during his time at Racing Bulls, recovering well from a crash on the formation lap in Australia. Bayer described Hadjar as intelligent and well-trained, stating the team has done everything possible to prepare him for the journey.
What's next:
Hadjar will enter the season with a clear mandate to support the team's constructors' championship efforts while quietly learning the ropes. If he can heed Bayer's advice and adapt to the unique pressures of Red Bull Racing, he may finally provide the stability the team has long sought alongside Verstappen.