Hamilton Backs Hadjar for 'Difficult' Red Bull Promotion Alongside Verstappen

Red Bull is set for a significant lineup change in 2025, with rookie Isack Hadjar joining Max Verstappen. This move marks Verstappen's third different teammate since Sergio Perez's departure last December, signaling Red Bull's continued search for a strong number two driver. Despite the "obviously quite difficult" challenge of partnering Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton has expressed confidence in Hadjar's ability to thrive.

Why it matters:

Red Bull's persistent struggle to find a consistent second driver to support Max Verstappen highlights a crucial challenge for the team's Constructors' Championship ambitions. The rapid turnover of teammates—Perez, Lawson, and Tsunoda—underscores the intense pressure and unique environment at Red Bull. Hadjar's promotion represents another attempt to stabilize this crucial role, with the team hoping his raw speed and learning ability can finally provide the necessary support for Verstappen.

The details:

• Teammate Turnover: Max Verstappen will welcome Isack Hadjar as his fourth teammate in 18 months, following Sergio Perez, Liam Lawson, and Yuki Tsunoda.
• Previous Struggles: Liam Lawson was dropped after three consecutive Q1 exits. Yuki Tsunoda scored only 30 points for Red Bull, significantly less than Perez's 152 points and four podiums in 2024.
• Hadjar's Rookie Season: The 21-year-old Hadjar has shown remarkable resilience and progress in his rookie F1 season. He bounced back from a formation lap crash in Australia to score points and secure a maiden podium at the Dutch Grand Prix.
• Current Standings: Hadjar currently sits P10 in the Drivers' standings for Racing Bulls, 13 points ahead of teammate Lawson and 18 points clear of Tsunoda.
• Team Endorsement: Red Bull team boss Laurent Mekies praised Hadjar's "great maturity," "quick learning," and "raw speed," stating his belief that Hadjar "can thrive alongside Max and produce the magic on track!"
• Hamilton's Support: Lewis Hamilton, while acknowledging the "quite difficult" environment at Red Bull for teammates, stated, "I'm not going to lie, it doesn't worry me." He commended Hadjar's "amazing job this year" and his "great approach."
• Tsunoda's Demotion: Yuki Tsunoda, after four years with Red Bull's sister team and a year with Red Bull Racing, has been demoted to a reserve driver for the F1 2026 championship.
• Tsunoda's Reaction: Tsunoda expressed his disappointment, stating, "I'm not finished yet" and vowing to work harder to earn a return to the grid. Hamilton hoped Tsunoda would receive an opportunity with "the right support."

What's next:

The success of Hadjar's promotion will hinge on his ability to adapt to the high-pressure environment alongside Verstappen and consistently deliver strong performances. Red Bull's long-term strategy in driver development and its approach to managing the second seat will be under intense scrutiny as they aim to consolidate their position at the top of Formula 1. Tsunoda's determination to fight for a return to the grid adds another layer of intrigue to the driver market for future seasons.