Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has offered an insight into the decision to change his driver line-up for 2026.
Isack Hadjar has been handed a promotion to the team and will become Max Verstappen's new team-mate.
The Frenchman will replace Yuki Tsunoda, who endured a challenging campaign behind the wheel this season.
Tsunoda will transition to a test and reserve driver role while Hadjar is tasked with bringing home strong results for Red Bull as the sport enters a new era under technical regulations.
Mekies highlighted Red Bull has been impressed by how quickly Hadjar has adapted to F1 and has backed the 21-year-old to produce “magic” alongside Verstappen.
“In his first F1 season, he has displayed great maturity and proved to be a quick learner,” Mekies said.
“Most importantly, he has demonstrated the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport.
“We believe Isack can thrive alongside Max and produce the magic on track.
“2026 will be a huge challenge for the team and for Red Bull Ford Powertrains, these are exciting times, and I am looking forward to seeing what we can do together.”
Hadjar will become the fourth F1 driver to partner Verstappen in three seasons, with many of his predecessors struggling for form alongside the four-time champion.
Hadjar's promotion to Red Bull comes almost five years after he joined its famed junior programme.
Most read
In this article
Join the conversation!