Ted Kravitz expresses concern for Isack Hadjar's 2026 Red Bull prospects alongside Max Verstappen
F1 analyst Ted Kravitz questions whether Isack Hadjar will be able to compete with Max Verstappen at Red Bull in 2026, fearing the new regulations will play to the reigning champion's strengths and leave the promoted junior driver vulnerable.
F1 pundit Ted Kravitz has voiced concerns about Isack Hadjar's potential struggle to match Max Verstappen when the Frenchman steps up to Red Bull Racing in 2026, suggesting the new regulations could widen the gap between the teammates.
Why it matters:
The dynamic within Red Bull is a perennial topic in Formula 1, especially with Verstappen's history of dominating his teammates. Hadjar's promotion represents a significant gamble for the team's long-term driver strategy. His ability to adapt and perform alongside a generational talent like Verstappen under a new set of technical rules will be critical not only for his own career but also for Red Bull's constructors' championship ambitions.
The details:
Kravitz's apprehension stems from the challenge of the 2026 regulation changes. He speculates that Verstappen, with his extensive experience and adaptability, will master the new car quickly, potentially leaving a less-experienced teammate like Hadjar behind.
- On The F1 Show, Kravitz stated, "I’m a bit worried about Hadjar. I just think, how is it going to be different? Max will get his head around the new regulations, and Hadjar will be doing well to not be crushed like every other one of Max’s teammates."
- Hadjar is set for only his second F1 season in 2026, having replaced Yuki Tsunoda at the senior team.
- His 2025 season with Racing Bulls showed promise, including a podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix and outscoring his more experienced teammate, Liam Lawson, over the year.
Looking ahead:
The true test will begin with pre-season testing in Barcelona at the end of January. Hadjar has already completed his first running in a Red Bull car during the post-season test in Abu Dhabi, a crucial early step in his acclimatization. His performance throughout the 2026 season will be closely watched to see if he can defy the skepticism and establish himself as a credible force within the team, or if the predicted gap to Verstappen materializes.