Source: Official Team Post via X
Isack Hadjar Reflects on Helmut Marko's Absence at Red Bull
Isack Hadjar acknowledges the impact of Helmut Marko's departure from Red Bull, expressing his sentiment over the absence of the former advisor. Despite changes, Hadjar's recent performances demonstrate his growth and adaptation in F1.
Isack Hadjar, one of Red Bull's promising drivers, has opened up about missing the guidance of Helmut Marko, the team's former senior advisor and head of the young driver program. Marko, known for his rigorous yet rewarding oversight, was instrumental in Hadjar's journey through the ranks of the Red Bull Junior Team, leading to his eventual place in Formula 1.
Hadjar joined the Red Bull Junior Team in 2022, quickly making his mark with three victories in his first Formula 3 season. Despite a winless year in Formula 2, Marko's trust in the French driver paid off, with Hadjar finishing as runner-up in the 2024 championship. His impressive performances earned him a spot in Formula 1, where he continued to impress and eventually secured a seat alongside Max Verstappen at the senior Red Bull team starting from 2026.
With Marko's departure at the end of 2025, Hadjar reflects on the changes within the team. When asked about the absence of both Marko and former team principal Christian Horner, who was dismissed after the 2025 British Grand Prix, Hadjar candidly admitted, "I miss working with Helmut for sure."
Despite these changes, Hadjar's promotion to the senior team is proving successful. He has broken the so-called 'second seat curse' by notching three podium finishes in the 2026 season, only failing to score points once. His recent success at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where he navigated challenging weather conditions to secure a podium, underlines his ability and adaptability.
Team principal Laurent Mekies praised Hadjar's performance at Interlagos, describing it as his best race with the team in terms of pure pace and strategic racing. "He has done a lot of very strong racing this year," said Mekies. "But I think he has raised the bar another time."
Mekies emphasized the team's commitment to supporting Hadjar's continued development. "That’s what we want to keep seeing," he noted, highlighting the team's confidence in Hadjar by confirming him for the 2027 season. "We were simply hoping to provide him with the environment for him to keep doing that."
Hadjar's journey at Red Bull continues to be one of growth and potential, even as he navigates the new dynamics without Marko in the paddock.