Red Bull Racing's junior sensation, Isack Hadjar, has made a startling admission, claiming he feels 'no pressure' from the F1 giants to capitalise on Sergio Perez's current performance slump. The revelation comes amidst intense speculation about the second seat at the championship-winning team for the 2025 season.
The 19-year-old French driver, currently competing in his second Formula 2 season, is widely regarded as one of the most promising talents in the Red Bull junior stable. His comments offer a fascinating glimpse into the mindset of a young driver on the cusp of motorsport's pinnacle.
The Perez Conundrum: An Open Door?
With Sergio Perez's form fluctuating wildly alongside the dominant Max Verstappen, the F1 paddock is rife with rumours about his future. Many expected this to create a palpable sense of urgency for Red Bull's junior drivers, like Hadjar, to prove their worth.
However, Hadjar sees it differently. 'To be honest, I don't feel any pressure from them,' he stated. His focus remains squarely on his own performance in Formula 2, believing that consistent results are the only true key to unlocking the door to Formula 1.
Trusting the Red Bull Process
Hadjar's calm demeanour stems from a deep-seated trust in the Red Bull system. He emphasised that the team's hierarchy, including Dr. Helmut Marko, has not placed any undue expectations on his shoulders regarding Perez's seat.
'They are not putting pressure on me about Checo's situation,' Hadjar explained. His primary directive is clear: win in F2. The young driver believes that if he delivers on the track, the opportunity will follow naturally, regardless of the dynamics in the senior team.
The Intense Reality of the Junior Programme
Life under the Red Bull umbrella is notoriously demanding. Hadjar shed light on the constant evaluation process, where every session, every race, and every simulator run is meticulously analysed.
Despite this high-stakes environment, his philosophy is remarkably simple. 'I just need to focus on my job,' he said, outlining a mindset that prioritises process over outcome—a mature approach for a driver of his age.
The battle for the 2025 Red Bull seat is one of the most intriguing storylines in F1. While more experienced names like Carlos Sainz are linked to the drive, Hadjar's impressive F2 campaign ensures he remains a compelling dark horse in the conversation.
