Isack Hadjar earns Red Bull praise after strong 2026

Isack Hadjar has strengthened his standing within Red Bull, with team principal Laurent Mekies praising the French driver’s work and development during the 2026 Formula 1 season. The recognition comes as Hadjar misses the Dutch Grand Prix because of a wrist injury.

Hadjar, 21, is eighth in the drivers’ championship after the opening part of the campaign. Mekies highlighted his willingness to learn, his regular presence at Red Bull’s factory in England since January and the humility he has shown while adapting to the team. He has also been receptive to guidance from Max Verstappen while forming his own technical opinions.

Red Bull has been encouraged by Hadjar’s speed, which the team had already seen during his time with Racing Bulls last year. Mekies also considers the driver’s technical feedback advanced for his level of experience and said his performances have improved steadily from one Grand Prix to the next.

That progress gives Hadjar a firm platform inside the team despite his absence at Zandvoort, where Formula 1 resumes after its traditional summer break. Red Bull enters the second part of the season after confirming Verstappen’s contract extension through 2030, while Hadjar’s results and continued development have earned clear internal approval.