Former Red Bull drivers assess Isack Hadjar's promotion

Two former Red Bull drivers have weighed in on Isack Hadjar's promotion to Red Bull, where he will partner Max Verstappen.

Hadjar concluded his pre-season preparations earlier this week in Bahrain as he gets ready for his second F1 campaign.

The Frenchman was handed a step up to the senior squad after an impressive rookie season with Racing Bulls, which peaked with an unexpected podium at the Dutch Grand Prix.

However, team-mates of Verstappen at Red Bull have tended not to fare well in the second seat, leading to their swift exits.

One such driver who experienced a challenge to match Verstappen in 2019 and 2020 was Alex Albon - but the Williams driver has backed Hadjar for success at his new team.

“Isack is a quick driver,” Albon told media including RacingNews365.

“Actually, a lot of this regulation change will be good, it's a fresh start for everyone. 

“At least from what I've seen so far, he seems to be quite comfortable with the car. 

“It's a lot of learning to do, not just in terms of having a quick team-mate, but the car itself. So I think he's going to do okay.”

Sergio Perez has returned to the grid this year with Cadillac, having been dropped by Red Bull at the end of the 2024 season.

Like Albon, the Mexican has faith that Hadjar can be successful at the Milton Keynes-based squad.

“It's great to come into Red Bull with a change in the regulations,” he said. 

“Isack is a very talented driver, he's shown that.

“As long as he stays [fit] throughout the year, he will have a very successful career in F1. 

“Being team-mates with Max at Red Bull, it's a great team. 

“It's a great place for him to be at this point of his career. It's a massive opportunity.”