Hadjar declares ‘I’m next’ on Red Bull F1 list

Isack Hadjar insists he is "next on the list" for a seat with one of Red Bull's two F1 teams, even though he concedes his future "does not depend" on him at this stage.

As the 2024 season reaches its end, speculation surrounding who will drive for the joint Milton Keynes-Faenza outfit is starting to ramp up.

Max Verstappen will race for Red Bull, but who will partner him is far from certain, which is likely to directly affect the sister team's composition - and Hadjar.

Both of RB's current drivers, Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson, are vying for the second seat at the reigning constructors' champions.

If Sergio Perez is let go, which would not come as a surprise despite being contracted for 2025, it is expected that one of those two will be promoted.

This would theoretically pave the way for Hadjar to slot in at RB. The 20-year-old is already due to continue the reserve duties he assumed when Lawson replaced Daniel Ricciardo.

"I would say that my chances exist, at least," the French driver told Motorsport.com. "Obviously, it does not depend on me.

"A lot of things are happening at Racing Bulls [RB] and Red Bull, anything can happen. And obviously, I am next on the list. It is just a fact.

"I do not know what decisions they will make, but in any case, I am here and I try to be ready for next year whatever happens."

'I would not be satisfied'

There is, however, a joker in the pack by way of Franco Colapinto. Having stepped up to F1 mid-way through his rookie F2 campaign, the Argentine has instantly impressed alongside Alexander Albon at Williams.

With Carlos Sainz already confirmed for the Grove-based squad next season, team principal James Vowles has been actively pursuing opportunities for his young driver.

Gabriel Bortoleto, who leads Hadjar by four-and-a-half points atop the F2 drivers' championship standings, has taken the Stake seat next to Nico Hulkenberg, leaving RB as the only remaining potential destination for Colapinto.

Speculation surrounding the 21-year-old has quickly reached fever pitch, with some going as far as saying he is in the running for a full Red Bull drive. However, in reality, RB is still a significantly more likely home for him.

When asked about Colapinto, Hadjar pivoted back to outline his own credentials, whilst stating he "would not be satisfied" if he does not get the promotion, if a seat does become available.

"Yes, they [Red Bull/RB] are looking for a fast driver, and he has proven that he is," the Campos F2 driver said.

"So, yes, obviously, I have been part of a programme for three years, I am second in F2, I am the team's reserve, so... that's how it is.

"I would not be satisfied, obviously, because you want to drive. But if that is what has to be done, then I will do it and I will think about the future."