Isack Hadjar recalled the horror he felt following his crash on the formation lap ahead of his F1 debut at the Australian Grand Prix, where he thought his "life was over."
The Racing Bulls rookie embarrassingly crashed before the season opener had even started, resulting in a wave of emotions that failed to impress Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko.
However, since that unfortunate moment, the young French-Algerian has delivered several strong results for Red Bull's sister team — including a shock maiden podium at the Dutch Grand Prix.
Despite missing significant running during free practice, Hadjar qualified an impressive fourth at Zandvoort.
As the race got underway, he looked comfortable running near the front, defending his position with ease against the likes of George Russell and Charles Leclerc.
He also remained within a couple of seconds of Max Verstappen before inheriting third place after Lando Norris retired in the closing laps.
For the 20-year-old, a podium finish seemed unlikely so early in the season — particularly after what had happened in Australia earlier this year.
"After what happened in Australia, in the car, obviously, I thought my life was over, but then you realise it can happen and you bounce back very quickly from that," said Hadjar.
"Then to have a podium without too much miracles and not much going on ahead—no, I didn’t expect it, especially that fast in the season.
"Already finishing fourth on pure pace would have been a mighty result. But finishing third, I’m just over the moon."
Getting to where he is today has been no easy feat for Hadjar, who joined the Red Bull family four years ago whilst competing in the Formula Regional European Championship (FRECA).
Asked who helped make his career possible, Hadjar replied: "There’s more than one person, obviously. First of all, my parents, my mum and my dad. And more sporting wise, Helmut who gave me this shot.
"I remember four years ago he signed me back in FRECA it was and he gave me a path, a trajectory, and I’m actually following it pretty well right now."
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