Verstappen likely to have Hadjar as teammate: Rookie knows Red Bull’s plan

11:42, 30 Nov

byLudo van Denderen

All signs are pointing in the direction of Isack Hadjar becoming Max Verstappen's teammate next year. The Frenchman has already been informed by Red Bull about their plans for him in 2026.

Starting from sixth place, Hadjar will line up for Sunday’s Grand Prix in a Racing Bulls car, for which such a good grid position is always a surprise. Once the calendar turns to 2026, starting from sixth could be normal—or possibly even disappointing—because Hadjar is expected to drive Red Bull Racing’s RB22 by then.

Red Bull will announce their plans for next year within a few days. In Qatar, Hadjar confirmed he has now been informed about what Red Bull wants to do with him in 2026, although he refused to confirm that he will be driving alongside the Dutchman.

Isack Hadjar - Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Hadjar in good spirits

Asked whether the promotion would come as a surprise, Hadjar told GPblog and others: “Let's see, I'm not saying anything but…”

When a smile then appears on the Frenchman’s face, he says: “You can't see that I'm smiling!”

In any case, the speculation about Red Bull Racing’s second seat is coming to an end. Much to Hadjar’s relief: “Yes, so finally you leave me alone. A bit less questions, or actually maybe even more questions, I don't know.

“But it's good to know that it's going to end soon. I'm very happy, especially with a result like this (sixth in qualifying, ed.), it's just cherry on the cake. I'm just enjoying it."

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