Isack Hadjar keen for 'awesome' Max Verstappen lesson after Red Bull promotion

Isack Hadjar has declared his excitement to get the opportunity to work with Max Verstappen after being promoted to Red Bull for 2026.

It was officially confirmed on Tuesday, ahead of the Abu Dhabi season-finale, that Hadjar is to be paired with Verstappen at the senior Red Bull team from next season, with Yuki Tsunoda dropping back to a test and reserve driver role.

Hadjar is to be replaced by Arvid Lindblad at Racing Bulls to partner Liam Lawson, with the Briton the latest rookie in the Red Bull junior programme to make F1.

Hadjar will be in just his second F1 season in 2026, but despite the daunting prospect of being Verstappen's team-mate, the Frenchman, whose season began with heartbreak after crashing on the formation lap in Australia and posting a DNS, and reached the high of a podium in the Dutch GP, was relishing the chance presented to him. 

"I’m so grateful to Red Bull Racing for giving me the opportunity and trust to race at the highest level of Formula 1," Hadjar explained.

"After all the hard work I have put in since joining the Junior Team, it’s such a great reward. I’ve had many ups and downs throughout my career, and they kept believing and pushing me. 

"This year with Racing Bulls has been absolutely amazing, I’ve learnt a lot and secured a maiden podium. I feel I’m much better as a racing driver and a person, due to the team‘s support and preparation.

"I feel ready to go to Red Bull Racing, and I am happy and proud that they feel the same. It’s an awesome move to work with the best, and learn from Max is something I can’t wait for."