Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Isack Hadjar has expressed strong confidence in handling the pressure of partnering Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing during the 2026 Formula 1 season.
The French driver arrived at the team with significant expectations, given the well-documented challenges faced by Verstappen’s previous team-mates. Since 2019, drivers such as Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Sergio Perez, and Yuki Tsunoda have struggled to match the Dutchman’s performance and retain their seats.
Hadjar represents the latest attempt to break that pattern, and his early-season performances have demonstrated both speed and consistency, despite ongoing adaptation to the RB22’s characteristics.
“In a way, when you see the gap to Max’s team-mates, you realise it’s something special. But at the same time, I stay realistic. We have the same car, and if I feel capable, then I am capable,” Hadjar explained.
Initial assessments of the season indicate that the RB22 presents handling challenges, particularly in balance and drivability—issues also acknowledged by Verstappen. These technical traits have historically contributed to the difficulties faced by Red Bull’s second drivers.
Nevertheless, Hadjar believes his performance trajectory aligns with expectations. He emphasised that the opening three races have provided a constructive baseline for understanding the car and refining his approach.
“The first three races went exactly as I expected. The sample is still small, but the car is clearly difficult to drive. I’m not far from where I should be, and I’m happy with how I’ve driven so far,” he stated.
In recent seasons, Red Bull drivers have often highlighted the need for gradual adaptation to the team’s unique technical package. However, Hadjar appears to be demonstrating a more immediate understanding of the car, something rarely seen since the tenure of Daniel Ricciardo.
With a stable foundation established early in the season, Hadjar now faces the longer-term challenge of maintaining competitive proximity to Verstappen while continuing to adapt to the RB22’s demanding characteristics throughout the 2026 campaign.
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