Isack Hadjar is one of six rookies making their debut in Formula 1 in Melbourne. The French-Algerian driver is joining Red Bull’s sister team, becoming the new teammate of Yuki Tsunoda. Hadjar candidly admits to feeling a bit ‘scared’ ahead of his debut for Racing Bulls.
Isack Hadjar received the good news in December that he would be joining Yuki Tsunoda on the Formula 1 grid in 2025. The French-Algerian Hadjar was the last driver to learn that he would be starting at the Albert Park Circuit in March.
The driver, described by Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko as ‘fast, but impulsive’, is looking forward to his debut race, but is also a bit scared. “The fact that I struggle with visualizing and having a complete picture (of his F1 debut, ed.) shows how big it is for me,” the 20-year-old tells Canal Plus. “Honestly, I’m scared. I know that my experience in F1 is limited. The field is of such a high level.”
Tsunoda
Last December, Hadjar secured the second place in the Formula 2 Championship, trailing behind champion and fellow debutant Gabriel Bortoleto. The French Algerian has also participated in several free practice sessions in the premier class. “Ultimately, I know myself,” Hadjar continues. “I know that when I get in the car, I want to beat Pierre Gasly. That’s ultimately the only real goal.”
A trait that Hadjar shares with his Japanese teammate is that the young driver is not afraid to voice his opinion over the radio. “I know very well which team I’m in,” smiles the Racing Bulls driver. “I know they don’t like the radio button too much. It’s a bit scary to step into a world like this. But I continue to strive for success, to win. And also to manage my emotions effectively.”
