Isack Hadjar faces one of Formula 1’s most daunting assignments in 2026 when he takes the seat alongside four-time world champion Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing. The Frenchman’s impressive rookie campaign has caught the attention of many in the paddock, including Mike Hezemans, who believes the young driver possesses the raw talent needed but acknowledges the immense psychological pressure that comes with being Verstappen’s teammate. Red Bull’s history of churning through drivers in that particular cockpit adds another layer of complexity to what promises to be a fascinating dynamic.
Hadjar’s standout rookie season earns promotion
The 21-year-old driver made an immediate impact during his debut Formula 1 season with RB in 2025, demonstrating maturity beyond his years. After a heartbreaking retirement in his maiden race at the Australian Grand Prix, Hadjar quickly found his rhythm and delivered consistent performances that justified Red Bull’s faith in his potential. His qualifying pace proved particularly impressive, regularly putting him in strong positions to score points. The highlight came at Zandvoort, where he secured a podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure in front of a passionate home crowd for Verstappen.
Hezemans was asked to evaluate the 2025 rookie class and did not hesitate in his assessment. Speaking to GPFans, he identified Hadjar as the most complete newcomer despite strong competition from Oliver Bearman and Gabriel Bortoleto. The former racing driver emphasised the crucial importance of qualifying performance across all junior formulae and Formula 1 itself, noting that Hadjar excelled in this fundamental area more consistently than his fellow rookies.
Qualifying prowess separates Hadjar from rookie rivals
While acknowledging the raw speed displayed by both Bearman and Bortoleto throughout the season, Hezemans drew a clear distinction in his analysis. Bortoleto’s pace particularly impressed him, citing the Brazilian’s ability to challenge the experienced Nico Hülkenberg, historically known as a qualifying specialist. Bearman also demonstrated exceptional speed in his Haas machinery alongside Esteban Ocon.
However, Hadjar’s combination of consistency and performance under pressure set him apart in Hezemans’ evaluation. “In all racing classes, whether Formula 4, 3, 2 or Formula 1, you need to qualify really well. Then you’ve already won eighty percent of your weekend. Hadjar is the best at that,” Hezemans explained. He awarded the Frenchman a rating of 8.5 out of 10, placing particular emphasis on his mental strength and ability to deliver when it mattered most. For pure speed, Hezemans gave the edge to Bortoleto and Bearman, but consistency and pressure management tilted the balance firmly in Hadjar’s favour.
The poisoned chalice of partnering Verstappen
Looking ahead to 2026, Hezemans offered a candid assessment of the challenge awaiting Hadjar at Red Bull Racing. The seat alongside Verstappen has become notoriously difficult to occupy, with multiple drivers failing to meet the team’s exacting standards in recent years. Sergio Pérez’s struggles and eventual departure serve as the most recent example of the intense scrutiny that comes with the role.
Hezemans jokingly suggested that Hadjar might have been better off not answering the phone when Red Bull called, acknowledging the career-defining nature of the opportunity. “It’s so difficult to sit next to someone like Max. It can really determine your career. Just look at Lawson,” he noted, referencing Liam Lawson’s own challenges during his stint alongside Verstappen in 2025. The comparison to teammates past and present underlines the unique pressure that exists within the Red Bull garage.
New regulations offer glimmer of hope
Despite the daunting task ahead, Hezemans identified factors that could work in Hadjar’s favour. The 2026 technical regulations represent a fundamental reset for Formula 1, with significantly revised power units and aerodynamic packages. This level playing field means Verstappen’s years of experience with the current generation of machinery become less relevant, potentially narrowing the gap between him and his new teammate.
Hezemans highlighted Hadjar’s qualifying strength as a crucial advantage, suggesting it provides the foundation needed to compete at the front of the grid. However, he also pointed to the increased complexity of the 2026 cars, which require more sophisticated management of electrical energy deployment and recovery. Verstappen’s ability to drive efficiently while simultaneously managing complex systems has long been one of his greatest strengths, requiring minimal conscious effort and freeing up mental capacity for other performance elements.
Mental approach will determine Hadjar’s Red Bull future
The key to survival at Red Bull, according to Hezemans, lies in Hadjar maintaining his composure and focusing on his own development rather than fixating on Verstappen’s benchmark. The mental game will prove just as important as raw speed or technical understanding. Red Bull’s track record shows they have little patience for drivers who fall too far behind their lead driver, but they also recognise the value of stability when a teammate can stay within striking distance.
Hezemans expressed cautious optimism about Hadjar’s prospects, suggesting that if the Frenchman can remain competitive relative to Verstappen, Red Bull will give him the time and support needed to develop. The team’s decision to promote him reflects their belief in his underlying talent, but the pressure to deliver results immediately will be immense. How Hadjar navigates his first season alongside one of the sport’s all-time greats will shape not only his career trajectory but potentially Red Bull’s competitive position as Formula 1 enters a new regulatory era.
