As Racing Bulls rookie Isack Hadjar prepares to embark on his first season in Formula 1 in 2025, the French-Algerian driver has spoken candidly about his deep respect and gratitude for Red Bull motorsport advisor, Helmut Marko.
Hadjar, who finished as the runner-up in the 2024 Formula 2 championship, will partner Yuki Tsunoda at Racing Bulls after Liam Lawson was promoted to Red Bull Racing alongside Max Verstappen.
Reflecting on his journey to Formula 1, the 20-year-old debutant highlighted the instrumental role Marko played in his career development.
But he also underscored the close relationship that he has built with the Austrian since he joined the Red Bull junior program in 2022.
“It really touches me that Helmut came all the way to Italy to sign my contract in person,” Hadjar revealed in an interview with French broadcaster Canal+. “I owe him a lot.”
A Relationship Beyond the Norm
Marko’s leadership style has often been described as demanding, yet Hadjar has found a unique connection with the Austrian that goes beyond the typical boss-employee dynamic.
“The relationship I have with him is more than just boss-employee,” Hadjar explained.
“If things aren’t going well, he won’t just criticise me. He respects me as a person and my approach to the sport.”
This mutual respect has been pivotal for Hadjar, whose rise through the Red Bull system has been marked by challenges and growth.
Marko’s mentorship has not only fostered Hadjar’s development as a driver but also given him the confidence to face the demanding world of Formula 1.
Reality Yet to Sink In
For Hadjar, the magnitude of his promotion to F1 has yet to fully sink in.
Despite earning the seat after a strong campaign in Formula 2 and a series of impressive outings in FP1 sessions and testing, the 20-year-old admits the reality of racing alongside the biggest names in motorsport will likely only hit him during pre-season testing.
“I’ll only really realise it in Bahrain, during pre-season testing,” he admitted. “I’ll be sharing the track with Lewis [Hamilton], [Fernando] Alonso, Max [Verstappen].”
However, his challenge will be particularly steep, as he faces off against the experienced Yuki Tsunoda, who is entering his fifth season with Racing Bulls.
Keeping it Real
While Hadjar is eager to prove himself, he remains realistic about the challenges of his debut season.
“I know myself. As soon as I get in the car, I want to beat my teammate,” Hadjar stated confidently.
“The first races will be difficult, but I have to make sure I don’t get discouraged.”
Marko, who has closely monitored Hadjar’s progression, echoed the need for the rookie to maintain composure under pressure.
Speaking on the Inside Line F1 Podcast, Marko praised Hadjar’s natural speed but stressed the importance of focus and consistency.
“Isack is fast, but he has to keep his emotions under control and has to focus,” Marko said.
Learning from Past Mistakes
Marko pointed to specific moments in Hadjar’s junior career that highlight areas for improvement.
“One example when in Monte Carlo, there was a Safety Car and he [another driver] was all of a sudden in front of him. He was moaning and complaining ‘Why?’ and so on,” Marko added.
“Instead, the guy had cold tyres. He should have driven to attack him instead of being all over the place on the radio.”
Marko also referenced Hadjar’s spins during tests in Abu Dhabi and a Friday outing as examples of the need for greater consistency.
“So, generally, focus on the important things and make less mistakes, like he had a spin in the test in Abu Dhabi. I think he had a spin on a Friday outing.
“Be more consistent but the speed and everything is there. The rest comes through routine.”
Looking Ahead
With Marko’s guidance and the support of the Racing Bulls team, Hadjar enters 2025 with both high expectations and a steady plan for growth.
While the rookie acknowledges the steep learning curve ahead, his combination of raw talent, determination, and a unique bond with one of the sport’s most experienced mentors gives him a strong foundation to build upon.
As Bahrain testing looms, Hadjar’s story will be one to watch as he begins his journey on motorsport’s grandest stage.
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