Hadjar dismisses the possibility of an early switch to Red Bull.

Hadjar dismisses the possibility of an early switch to Red Bull.

      "I’m confident that I’ll be in Formula 1 next year"

      Despite experiencing a decline in performance since the summer, Isack Hadjar remains optimistic about his chances for elevation to Red Bull Racing in 2026, even as tensions rise within the current Racing Bulls team. The 21-year-old French driver had a lackluster weekend in Austin but expressed to Sky Italia his eagerness to improve in Mexico.

      "I'm really excited to get back in the car," Hadjar stated. "I believe I can be the top rookie of the season, but it's difficult to make a fair comparison, as my car isn't the same as those of Antonelli, Bortoleto, or Bearman."

      Hadjar acknowledged that his ultimate aspiration is clear. "My aim is to join Red Bull and become Verstappen’s teammate," he said. "I would feel disappointed if that doesn’t happen. However, it would also be tough to leave Racing Bulls since I’m performing well here."

      He confirmed that, regardless of the outcome, his future within the Red Bull organization is secure. "I’m certain I’ll still be in Formula 1 next year, unlike this time last year when I had no idea what lay ahead," he said. "So, you could say I’m feeling less anxious now."

      Hadjar also downplayed prior speculation about potentially replacing Yuki Tsunoda before the end of 2025. "That would mean I’d need to race two more times with my team," he remarked with a smile. "But that’s not going to happen. I’m happy at Racing Bulls, I’m working for the team, and I need to help secure sixth place in the Constructors’ Championship."

      His situation is markedly different from that of Tsunoda and Liam Lawson, who seem to be competing for the one remaining Racing Bulls seat for 2026, while junior driver Arvid Lindblad is anticipated to make his debut alongside Hadjar.

      Following an on-track incident in Austin and some heated radio exchanges, Tsunoda publicly apologized in Mexico. Both drivers were questioned about the incident and their uncertain futures during the official FIA press conference.

      "We haven’t spoken face to face," Tsunoda acknowledged. "I apologized to the team and to VCARB. What I expressed, especially to the media, was completely unnecessary."

      Lawson commented that he’s trying to maintain focus amidst the surrounding noise. "Every weekend I’m just aiming to perform my best," he said. "Our strategy doesn’t really change - we’re still awaiting the developments."

      When asked if he feels he’s done enough to secure his seat, Lawson responded: "You always reflect and learn from mistakes, but I believe I’ve done everything within my control. Performance has always been the key - drive fast, and you’ll stay."

      Regarding Tsunoda, the Japanese driver realizes that consistency could be crucial. "It’s quite straightforward - I need to keep scoring points in every race," he said. "I think I'm headed in the right direction, especially in the latter part of the season. The team understands my capabilities; now it’s about delivering results."

Hadjar dismisses the possibility of an early switch to Red Bull.

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Hadjar dismisses the possibility of an early switch to Red Bull.

Formula 1 | Although Isack Hadjar has experienced a decline in performance since the summer, he is still optimistic about his chances of moving up to Red Bull Racing in 2026 - even amid rising tensions (…)