In a stunning development that's set Formula One circles abuzz, 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg appears to be playing puppet master in the career of French F2 sensation Isack Hadjar. The Red Bull junior driver, currently dominating the Formula 2 championship, could be heading for an unexpected test with Mercedes.
The Rosberg Connection
The German former champion, who famously beat Lewis Hamilton to the 2016 title before his shock retirement, has taken a keen interest in Hadjar's career trajectory. Sources close to the situation reveal that Rosberg's influence may have been instrumental in facilitating what would be a highly unusual cross-team arrangement.
"Nico sees something special in Isack," an insider revealed. "He's been quietly mentoring him and believes he deserves a shot at proving himself in current F1 machinery."
Red Bull's Rising Star
Hadjar, currently sitting second in the F2 championship standings, is part of Red Bull's prestigious junior programme. The 19-year-old Frenchman has been turning heads with his mature driving style and remarkable consistency throughout the 2024 season.
His performances haven't gone unnoticed by the F1 establishment, with multiple team principals reportedly keeping close tabs on his development. However, a potential test with Mercedes would represent a significant departure from normal protocol within the fiercely competitive world of Formula One.
Mercedes' Youth Movement
The Silver Arrows have been increasingly active in scouting young talent, with Team Principal Toto Wolff known for his eye for emerging drivers. With Lewis Hamilton departing for Ferrari in 2025 and George Russell established as team leader, Mercedes are carefully evaluating their long-term options.
While Andrea Kimi Antonelli remains the hot favourite for the vacant seat, testing Hadjar would provide valuable comparative data and potentially uncover another gem for their driver development programme.
Paddock Reactions
The news has sent shockwaves through the F1 community, with many questioning how Red Bull would permit one of their most promising juniors to test with their historic rivals. However, insiders suggest that Hadjar's current contract situation may contain clauses that allow for such opportunities.
"This isn't just about finding a seat for next season," our source added. "It's about gathering experience in different machinery and understanding how various F1 teams operate. For a young driver, that's invaluable."
What This Means for F1's Future
If the test goes ahead, it could signal a shift in how top teams approach talent development. Cross-team testing opportunities for junior drivers are exceptionally rare in modern F1, making this potential arrangement particularly noteworthy.
The F1 world will be watching closely to see if Rosberg's influence can indeed secure this unprecedented opportunity for the young French star, and whether this could open doors for other promising juniors in the future.
