The debate surrounding who will drive alongside Tsunoda at VCARB in 2025 is generally between two drivers – Ricciardo and Lawson. These two men represent the contrast of youth and experience at Red Bull’s disposal. However, Red Bull also has the luxury of very talented drivers in Formula 2. Isack Hadjar is among them, as Helmut Marko has discussed.
Red Bull began making important changes to its academy structure last summer. Rather than having 5+ junior drivers in Formula 2, as they did in 2023, the reigning Champions have reduced the number of junior drivers within their setup.
The two Formula 2 drivers Red Bull chose to keep in their junior team were Pepe Marti and Isack Hadjar. With a reasonable part of the season complete, both drivers have shown great potential.
Helmut Marko happy with progress from Hadjar
Helmut Marko is particularly impressed with Isack Hadjar, who is currently fighting for 1st place in the standings:
“Isack Hadjar is in second place overall in Formula 2, and this is only due to a lot of bad luck,” he wrote on Speedweek.
“There were two retirements due to a fuel problem, which Dallara had to take on himself.
Isack Hadjar of #20 Campos Racing, during round 5 of the FIA Formula 2 Championship at Monaco Circuit in Monte Carlo on May 23-26, 2024. // Dutch Photo Agency / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202405240921 // Usage for editorial use only //
“In two other races, he was taken out by opponents. So we are talking about four retirements through no fault of his own, but he is still second in the standings.
“In addition, he prevented a major accident with an incredible reaction in the Monaco tunnel when he had to avoid the slow-driving Miyata.
“Hadjar is in good form and is fulfilling our expectations.”
Despite the young Frenchman’s impressive speed, his chances of joining F1 next season seem relatively low. Liam Lawson, though still uncertain of his own future, appears one place ahead in the queue for the seat at Racing Bulls.
That said, Hadjar can continue to make a convincing case to Red Bull in the coming months.
Earning a promotion to F1 is often about timing. Because of this, the 19-year-old’s path to the grid could be limited by factors beyond his control. Over the last few years, Red Bull have been reluctant to promote their junior drivers.
Yuki Tsunoda is the last driver to make the jump from Formula 2 to VCARB.
Still, Hadjar cannot think about this. He can only divert his energy towards putting together good performances and convincing Helmut Marko and Red Bull of his abilities.
