Isack Hadjar warned to control emotions ahead of Red Bull F1 promotion

Isack Hadjar has been told his tendency to emotionally "explode" in the cockpit will not be tolerated when he joins Red Bull Racing in 2026 to partner Max Verstappen. The warning comes despite the French rookie's impressive debut season that earned him the coveted seat.

Why it matters:

Red Bull is known for its high-pressure, no-nonsense environment where drivers are expected to deliver consistent, error-free performances. An inability to manage frustration could create internal friction and distract from the team's singular focus on winning championships, especially alongside the intensely focused Verstappen.

The details:

• Former F1 driver and Sky Sports analyst Anthony Davidson delivered the public warning, stating Hadjar "is going to have to learn how to not explode."
• Davidson acknowledged Hadjar's "brilliant season" but highlighted "many moments... where things haven’t gone his way, and he absolutely erupted inside the car."
• Hadjar himself has admitted to still "shouting and insulting" in the cockpit this year but claims he has worked on not transmitting those outbursts over team radio.
• The comparison to fellow French F1 legend Alain Prost, a driver renowned for his calculated and cerebral "Professor" style, was dismissed by Davidson, who said Hadjar is "definitely more edgy" and emotional.

What's next:

The spotlight will be intensely on Hadjar from the moment he steps into the Red Bull garage. His adaptation to the team's culture and his ability to manage his on-track temperament will be as critical to his success as his outright speed. While his passion is seen as "box office" entertainment, converting that fire into consistent, championship-level composure is his next major challenge.