Isack Hadjar of Racing Bulls is once again receiving accolades. After an impressive race in Monaco, the Parisian has now amassed more points than Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson combined. The 20-year-old driver also bounced back from two crashes during free practice sessions. A commendable performance, as former champion Damon Hill also acknowledges, admitting that Hadjar is exceeding all expectations. How long will it be before he moves up to Red Bull?
In the BBC’s Chequered Flag podcast, Damon Hill explained why he is so impressed with Isack Hadjar. After a strategic race, the young Red Bull talent, partly thanks to the teamwork of Liam Lawson, scored points again. “He (Hadjar) has actually surprised everyone,” said Hill. “He’s probably even surprised himself,” joked the former Williams driver. “I don’t know, but I’m certainly impressed.”
“I’m amazed at what Hadjar has already shown,” Hill continued. “He clearly had a terrible experience during the opening race in Australia when he was in tears after an early mistake.” Hadjar crashed his VCARB 02 into the wall during the formation lap. The young Parisian was visibly upset that his Formula 1 debut had gone this way. “He had to be comforted by Anthony Hamilton,” Hill recalled. Lewis Hamilton‘s father was praised for his actions afterwards.
‘He has done a fantastic job’
“The question arose whether Hadjar was emotionally strong enough to be a Formula 1 driver,” Hill explained. “But since then, he has done a fantastic job. He crashed into the wall twice in Monaco, but absolutely did not let it deter him. He then put on such a fantastic qualification and race. Hats off to him.”
Insiders are already whispering about a possible move to Red Bull. Yuki Tsunoda, who made the leap to the main team during the last GP of Japan, is struggling alongside Max Verstappen. The likelihood of Hadjar being promoted this season is slim. However, it is clear that Red Bull is having difficulty finding a competitive second driver. Over the past few years, Verstappen has claimed several victims, including celebrated drivers like Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, and Sergio Pérez.
