Isack Hadjar has shared his experience of rising from Racing Bulls to the Red Bull team, describing the transition as a ‘cultural shock’. However, the 21-year-old driver assured that his training in the youth program has facilitated this change.
Hadjar, who now competes alongside four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen, has begun this new stage after a year of debut at Racing Bulls. Although both structures are under the umbrella of the same energy drinks company, the driver acknowledges that the work environment is very different.
‘Without a doubt, it is a cultural shock,’ Hadjar stated in a recent interview on the Talking Bull podcast. ‘You come from a more family-oriented, Italian team to a British one, and it’s clear that the difference is noticeable.’ He added that the support he received from VCARB during his first season was crucial, as they are experts in preparing young drivers for the main seat.
Incorporated into the Red Bull family since 2021, Hadjar explained that his experience in testing and initial training sessions, including driving Verstappen’s car during the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, has eased his adaptation to the team.
He emphasized that his relationship with his current engineer, Richard Wood, began three years ago during those initial practice sessions. ‘The transition to Red Bull is not comparable to Lewis Hamilton’s move from Mercedes to Ferrari,’ he said. ‘I’ve been in the junior team since 2021 and have had FP1 sessions since then, so for me, it’s natural to be here.’
Hadjar also expressed his satisfaction at being part of a championship team. ‘There are still moments when I wonder how I got here, because I haven’t raced 200 times with the team. Every time I walk through the garage and sit in the car, I feel immense pride to be here and to share the team with such an extraordinary teammate,’ he concluded.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
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