Red Bull's decision to retain Isack Hadjar alongside Max Verstappen for the 2027 Formula 1 season has been met with widespread approval from fans. The contract extension was announced on 23 September, just ahead of Hadjar's return at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after missing three race weekends due to a wrist injury sustained during the summer break.
Hadjar currently sits eighth in the drivers' standings with 71 points, while Verstappen is sixth on 145 points. Despite his absence, the French-Algerian driver's consistent performances have convinced the team to keep him for another campaign.
Since Sergio Perez's departure, Red Bull has struggled to find a driver capable of extracting the same level of performance from the car as Verstappen. Liam Lawson filled the seat for 2025 but was replaced by Yuki Tsunoda after just two race weekends. Hadjar, who finished 12th in his rookie season with Racing Bulls in 2025, stepped up to Red Bull in 2026 and has since shown significant progress.
Fans were quick to share their support. "Wasn't expecting an announcement this early, but well deserved, Hadjar! He's been the only driver in that second seat to consistently score points since Perez," one fan commented on Reddit. Another added: "He was doing great before his injury so hopefully he can pick up where he left off again. Lawson will be relieved to be going back to a better car lol."
Support also came from those who believe Hadjar has proven his worth. "Hadjar getting podiums on both the sister team and the main team in 2 years is proof enough that he deserves to stay at a top team like RBR," read one post. Another comment noted: "Nothing unexpected. Racing Bulls should keep Lawson as well, he's doing well and this short RBR stint wasn't bad either."
However, some raised concerns about the challenges ahead, particularly as Hadjar's comeback takes place on a bumpy street circuit. "I do wonder if a bumpy street track is the ideal place for a comeback but equally he has to return sometime. Presumably he's happy he's fit and the medical staff agree so good luck to the fella," a fan wrote.
With this contract extension, Red Bull reaffirms its faith in Hadjar as part of its long-term project. The onus is now on the young driver to prove he can consistently challenge at the front and help the team reclaim the world championship.
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