While Red Bull has officially confirmed that young rookie Isack Hadjar will join the top team in 2026, alongside Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton has not hesitated to express his doubts — and his concern about the promotion of the Franco-Algerian.
Following the announcement of the promotion at Red Bull, Hamilton was frank: "I'm not going to lie, it doesn't worry me.". But he's done a phenomenal job this year… He's still very, very youngHe is still learning a lot about himself and his environment. »
In other words : Hadjar impresses with its performance… but the move to Red Bull, who are " the envelope they throw you in — as described Hamilton — remains a test of a completely different caliber.
According to the British driver, three elements are problematic: the context at Red Bull is very demanding, especially for the teammate of a champion like Verstappen. Afterwards, Hadjar remains young and still in the learning phase — the “top team” environment is not the same as that of a junior team.
Finally, there is the risk, in the long run, of wasting the talent of a promising player if he is not properly supported. Hamilton hope that Red Bull will be able to give it the right structure and support.
A warning for Isack Hajar from Lewis Hamilton that says a lot about the Red Bull business
Red Bull has never hidden the fact that his cars are demanding — too demanding, according to some. Since 2018, several drivers have been placed to the right of Verstappen suffered: Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Sergio Pérez, Liam Lawson, Yuki Tsunoda… None of them managed to establish themselves permanently.
Hamilton So remember that this is not a place F1 Like any other. The pressure, constant comparison, and expectations can do more harm than good. And it's not my intention to judge. Hadjarnot to destroy it — but to sound the alarm, as a veteran who has seen what “quick success” can cost.
Whether one admires him or not, Hamilton He did what few do: give an honest opinion in public. Not a low blow, but a sign of consideration.
He invites Red Bull not to rush the rise ofIsaac Hadjar — but to frame it, support it, protect it.
