French-Algerian driver Isack Hadjar is set to join the Racing Bulls Formula 1 team for the 2025 season, marking his ascent to the highest echelon of motorsport. The announcement came after Liam Lawson was confirmed as the replacement for Sergio Perez at Red Bull, resulting in Hadjar filling Lawson's seat and teaming up with Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda.
The 20-year-old Hadjar's promotion follows his impressive performance in the Formula 2 championship, where he finished as the runner-up to Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto. During his 2023-2024 F2 campaign, he recorded four victories and secured nine podium finishes across 54 starts, establishing himself as one of the most promising talents in motorsport.
"This is huge for myself, my family, and all the people who have believed in me from the beginning," Hadjar expressed joyfully upon receiving the news of his promotion. He emphasized the significance of this moment, stating, "The moment I’ve been working toward my whole life, it is the dream." This sentiment reflects his years of dedication and determination as he progressed through the ranks of single-seater racing.
Hadjar’s rise began when he entered karting at the young age of seven, inspired by his family's support and his early exposure to Formula 1. Transitioning to cars, he made his debut at the French F4 Championship, where he showcased his skills by winning races and achieving podium finishes. This foundation led him to the Red Bull Junior Program, where he has been nurtured to reach greater heights.
His switch to Racing Bulls will see him paired with Tsunoda, who is entering his fifth season of F1. "I look forward to working with and learning from Yuki,” Hadjar remarked. “I’ve always looked up to him. He went through the Red Bull junior program, like myself, and we’ve shared a similar path to F1. He’s very experienced and will be good to learn from."
Laurent Mekies, Racing Bulls team principal, praised Hadjar's growth over recent seasons. "Isack's talent and drive are necessary to compete at the highest level," he noted, emphasizing the belief within the team about Hadjar's capability. Mekies expressed confidence, stating, "I believe Isack and Yuki will make a great team."
Hadjar is not just another addition to the grid; he’s among the numerous rookies anticipated for the 2025 season. His background is notable—he has recorded several impressive outings, including four Free Practice sessions with both AlphaTauri and Red Bull. After showcasing his talent and adaptability, observers view him as poised for success.
Reflecting on his career advancements, Hadjar shared, "It’ll be a huge learning curve, but I’m ready to work hard and do the best I can for the team." This readiness to tackle challenges is what has characterized his racing career so far. From karting to F4 and eventually Formula 2, Hadjar has demonstrated resilience and skill, earning him praise from various stakeholders within the F1 community.
His recent successes have captured attention, especially his performance earlier this year where he dominated races, showcasing not only speed but tactical prowess—a trait often admired by seasoned drivers. Hadjar noted, "I feel like I’m stepping onto a whole new universe, driving much faster cars and racing with the best drivers in the world." This excitement adds to the buzz surrounding his onboarding with Racing Bulls.
Hadjar’s remarkable rise from karting to F1 without holding any major titles paints him as one of the few modern drivers who have scaled the ranks through sheer talent and determination. Previous winners of titles often overshadow upcoming racers, but Hadjar's story stands as proof of the possibilities for aspiring drivers.
Team CEO Peter Bayer remarked on the importance of nurturing talent through their structure, indicating Hadjar's promotion is part of Red Bull’s wider objective to cultivate the best young drivers. "The only question throughout the year was: 'What does RB mean?' Now we’re making it official: RB means Racing Bulls," Bayer confirmed, showcasing the emphasis on branding alongside talent development.
The 2025 season promises to be thrilling, with Hadjar as part of the new roster. Expectations are high, both from him and the team as they aim to achieve their goals. The opening round will be held at the Albert Park circuit in Melbourne, and fans are eager to see how the new driver dynamics play out.
