Overview
- Red Bull confirms Hadjar will partner Max Verstappen in 2026 after promotion from Racing Bulls, replacing Yuki Tsunoda.
- Mekies declines to set short‑term targets and says he wants Hadjar to “continue to surprise” as he progresses over several seasons.
- Hadjar’s 2025 rookie year featured first points in Japan, sixth in Monaco, a maiden podium at Zandvoort, and 12th in the championship.
- Tsunoda’s 2025 return of 30 points and 17th in the standings factored into the change, according to team reporting.
- Observers such as Guenther Steiner suggest the 2026 technical reset could give Hadjar a cleaner shot against Verstappen, while the driver himself accepts he may be slower early on.