Isack Hadjar: Red Bull‘s Rising Star in Formula 1
20-year-old French-Algerian rookie Isack Hadjar has quickly made his mark in Formula 1, showcasing both speed and resilience despite a rocky start. After a crash during the formation lap in Melbourne, Hadjar bounced back impressively, making Q3 appearances in China and Japan and securing points finishes in both Japan and Saudi Arabia. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko lauded him as “the surprise of the season.”
The Journey Begins: From Pixar to Pit Lane
Hadjar’s passion for motorsport ignited at a tender age, thanks to the Disney Pixar classic Cars. “I remember watching it at two years old and feeling an instant connection,” he shared. This early inspiration led him to watch Formula 1, setting the stage for his future aspirations.
By six, Hadjar was behind the wheel of a go-kart at a facility near Paris. Initially promising, his karting career faced challenges as he climbed the competitive ranks. “Competing in national championships was frustrating due to funding limitations,” he recalled, noting the disparity between budget and talent which is often a theme in motorsport.
Rivals and Friendships
Hadjar remembers his intense but friendly rivalries, particularly with Sami Meguetounif, now a competitor in Formula 2. “We’ve been friends since 2015, and our battles were always enjoyable,” he stated. Despite differing career paths, he believes both will eventually find their spots in F1.
A Winning Transition to Cars
Switching to car racing marked a turning point for Hadjar. He achieved notable success in French F4 before stepping up to the Formula Regional European Championship in 2021. “In cars, driver skill plays a much bigger role,” he reflected, noting a significant improvement in his performance.
His breakthrough victory in Monaco was monumental. “I dominated the damp track from pole position, setting fastest laps and sealing the win,” Hadjar recounted, a day that also led to his first meeting with Helmut Marko.
Rapid Progression through the Ranks
In 2022, Hadjar continued his ascent with Red Bull’s backing, moving to F3 where he secured multiple podiums and earned promotion to F2. In 2024, he won four feature races, ultimately coming close to securing the championship.
“Stalling at the start of the final race was tough,” he admitted, but it was his experiences that shaped him. “I knew my future was secure despite the disappointment,” he emphasized.
Personal Growth and Support
Hadjar credits much of his development to the resources provided by Red Bull. Working closely with Guillaume ‘Rocky’ Rocquelin, he has benefited from top-tier technical support. “I’ve grown exponentially in both driving and mental capacity,” he noted, attributing much of this progress to the supportive framework within the Red Bull Junior Team.
A Unique Relationship with Helmut Marko
Unlike many of his peers, Hadjar enjoys a unique rapport with Helmut Marko. “I didn’t receive the typical Monday morning calls,” he laughed, underlining the trust and honesty in their relationship, especially through challenging racing seasons.
“Le Petit Prost”: A Legacy in the Making
Affectionately dubbed “Le Petit Prost,” Hadjar embraces the nickname, although he admits he’s unsure of its origin. “I bite my nails like Prost,” he joked, thrilled to be associated with such a legendary name. “It’s a reminder of where I aim to be—among the F1 greats.”
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
With a trajectory that has captured the attention of fans and experts alike, Isack Hadjar’s story in Formula 1 is just beginning. He remains focused on his path, grounded by his upbringing and driven by a lifelong passion for racing. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Hadjar as he looks to solidify his status as one of the sport’s promising newcomers.