Isack Hadjar has openly expressed uncertainty about whether he can outperform Yuki Tsunoda but remains a prominent candidate for Red Bull’s highly sought-after second race seat alongside Max Verstappen. This development adds fresh tension to the ongoing Formula 1 narrative surrounding Red Bull’s efforts to secure a strong teammate to Verstappen, whose dominance in the sport has been unmatched in recent seasons.
Struggles of Red Bull’s Second Driver Role
While Verstappen has consistently delivered outstanding results, his teammates have found it difficult to match his pace and success, with Sergio Perez scoring the only five Grand Prix wins for the team besides Verstappen. Yuki Tsunoda, the current occupant of the second seat, is encountering similar challenges adapting to a car engineered to suit Verstappen’s aggressive racing style, which has raised questions about his long-term position.
Hadjar’s Rising Profile and Humble Outlook
Hadjar, a 20-year-old rookie, impressed during his debut season by accumulating 21 points. Speculation has intensified that he could be next in line to replace Tsunoda if performance issues persist. However, Hadjar remains grounded when asked about the possibility of surpassing Tsunoda, responding simply, I don’t know. His calm demeanor contrasts with the high-stakes environment surrounding the contract fight for the coveted role.
Red Bull’s Official Response and Future Contract Considerations
Despite rumors fueling speculation of an imminent driver change, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, Helmut Marko, has publicly dismissed the idea of a midseason swap, confirming Tsunoda’s position will remain secure for the rest of the current season. Still, with Tsunoda’s contract nearing its end, attention is firmly on Hadjar as a potential successor, intensifying the pressure on both drivers.
Overview of Hadjar’s Racing Credentials and Team Status
Born on September 28, 2004, Isack Alexandre Hadjar races under the French flag and holds dual French and Algerian nationality. He became part of the Red Bull Junior Team in 2022 and officially signed with Racing Bulls in 2025, taking over the seat from Liam Lawson to partner Tsunoda. Hadjar is contracted to remain with Racing Bulls until at least the end of the 2025 season, piloting the number 6 car.
In the current season, he has achieved eight podium finishes, three race wins, and two pole positions, positioning him second in the championship with 285 points. His performance includes setting sector records at four circuits and accumulating 25 victories over 180 career starts, along with 12 fastest lap awards. His contributions have helped the team maintain its lead in the constructors’ championship.
Implications for the Team and the Sport’s Competitive Landscape
The contest between Hadjar and Tsunoda signals a critical juncture for Red Bull as they seek to maximize their driver lineup for continued dominance. The so-called “poisoned” nature of the second seat highlights the complexities the team faces in balancing performance expectations and individual driver development. Hadjar’s ambition and current form position him as a potential rising star who could alter the team’s future dynamics.
As the Formula 1 season progresses, the rivalry and contract decisions surrounding the Red Bull second driver seat will remain a central storyline, captivating fans and influencing team strategies. The outcome will not only affect driver careers but may also shift the competitive balance within the sport’s elite ranks.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Yuki Tsunoda the shortest F1 driver?
A. Yuki Tsunoda is quite a personality and the sole Japanese driver in the lineup. At just 159 cm, he is the shortest driver. Also, weighing 54 kg makes him the lightest. Despite being light, he really enjoys eating and frequently mentions his love for food in interviews.