Overview
- Racing Bulls boss Alan Permane said Suzuka was the moment they felt "he is the real deal," after watching Hadjar alter his driving mid‑race to curb tyre degradation.
- Red Bull has confirmed Hadjar will partner Max Verstappen in 2026 following a rookie season that showcased strong qualifying and race pace.
- The 21‑year‑old rebounded from a formation‑lap crash on debut in Australia to qualify seventh in China, score points with eighth at Suzuka, and later take a maiden podium at Zandvoort.
- Permane praised Hadjar’s speed, openness to coaching, rapid learning and constructive self‑criticism, traits fostered in a more user‑friendly Racing Bulls car with guidance from Pierre Gasly.
- Hadjar called his mother‑manager upon learning of the promotion and has spoken of feeling both lucky and occasionally overwhelmed, asking himself, "What the hell am I doing here?"