Isack Hadjar Recalls 2021 Abu Dhabi Heartbreak for Lewis Hamilton

Isack Hadjar, set to join Red Bull in 2026, admits he was 'smashing the TV' during the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix finale where Max Verstappen clinched the title over Lewis Hamilton. Despite his Red Bull ties, Hadjar, who considers Hamilton a childhood hero, expressed 'mixed emotions' over the outcome.

Why it matters:

Isack Hadjar's candid reaction to one of F1's most contentious races offers a unique perspective from a rising talent within the Red Bull ecosystem. His admiration for Lewis Hamilton, even while being groomed by Red Bull, highlights the complex personal and professional loyalties that can exist in the sport. This insight provides a human element to a highly debated historical event, showing how even those within the F1 family are deeply affected by its drama.

The details:

• Speaking on The Red Flags Podcast, Hadjar described watching the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix alone in his room, reacting intensely to the race's controversial conclusion.
• He admitted to 'smashing the TV' in frustration, reflecting his strong emotional investment in the outcome.
• Despite his personal reaction, Hadjar acknowledged his professional loyalty to Red Bull: 'I was happy for Red Bull because at the end of the day it's not Mercedes that gave me a shot at F1. They didn't sign me. So I felt bad for him… But mixed feelings.'
• Hamilton has been a long-standing childhood hero for Hadjar. He recalled wishing Hamilton wouldn't retire before he had a chance to race against him.
• Hadjar's first year in F1 (2025) will coincide with Hamilton's debut with Ferrari, a fact Hadjar described as 'quite iconic' and a 'huge privilege'.
• He also noted having raced against Hamilton 'a few times this year' in his rookie season.
• Despite his respect, Hadjar emphasized he would never 'open the door' for the seven-time world champion on track.

The big picture:

Hadjar's strong rookie season in 2025, where he scored 51 points and secured a podium finish, evidently caught the attention of Red Bull. His promotion to the main Red Bull team alongside Max Verstappen for 2026 marks a significant milestone in his career, validating years of hard work within the Red Bull junior program. This move positions him at the forefront of a new era in Formula 1, joining a top team at a pivotal moment with new regulations on the horizon.

What's next:

Hadjar is set to join Max Verstappen at Red Bull for the 2026 season, a critical period with new technical regulations coming into effect. This move is a significant reward for his strong performance in his rookie 2025 season with Racing Bulls. His integration into a championship-winning team will be closely watched as F1 enters a new technical chapter.