Perez: 2026 Regulation Reset is 'Great' Timing for Hadjar at Red Bull

Sergio Perez believes Isack Hadjar is stepping into the 'toughest job in Formula 1' at the perfect moment, as the sweeping 2026 technical regulations offer a clean slate for all teams and drivers. The former Red Bull driver argues that the complete reset diminishes the disadvantage of being Max Verstappen's new teammate, providing the 21-year-old Frenchman a unique opportunity to establish himself from a more equal footing.

Why it matters:

Becoming Max Verstappen's teammate at Red Bull has proven to be a career-defining, and often career-limiting, challenge in recent years. A major regulation change, however, neutralizes the champion's accumulated experience and car-specific knowledge, potentially leveling the playing field. For Hadjar, this timing could be the key to avoiding the struggles of his predecessors and securing a long-term future at the top of the sport.

The details:

• Perez, who was replaced after the 2024 season, highlighted the opportunity presented by the new car and engine rules, stating, "It’s great to come into Red Bull with such a change in the regulations."
• Alex Albon, Verstappen's teammate from 2019-2020, concurred, noting the regulation change is "a fresh start for everyone" and that Hadjar appears comfortable with the new car's demands.
• The role has seen high turnover, with Perez, Liam Lawson, and Yuki Tsunoda all occupying the seat alongside Verstappen in a short span before being moved on.
• Hadjar earned the promotion after an impressive rookie season with Racing Bulls in 2025, where he secured a podium and outscored both Lawson and Tsunoda in the championship.
• The French driver also benefits from prior integration, having run FP1 sessions for Red Bull in previous years and now reuniting with Team Principal Laurent Mekies, who oversaw his F1 debut at Racing Bulls.

What's next:

All eyes will be on the dynamic within the Red Bull garage as the 2026 season begins. While the new regulations offer a theoretical reset, Verstappen's innate speed and adaptability remain the ultimate benchmark. Hadjar's performance under this immense pressure, especially in the early races, will be critical in determining whether he can break the cycle and become a consistent challenger to his legendary teammate, or if the 'toughest job in F1' claims another victim.