The single aspect that captivates Red Bull regarding Isack Hadjar's "remarkable" F1 comeback
Following his wrist injury, Isack Hadjar faced a challenging return to the Red Bull RB22 at one of the most demanding circuits on the Formula 1 calendar. The Baku City Circuit not only poses significant crash risks, but also includes numerous complex sections throughout the historic part of the city.
It demands a high level of confidence, yet Hadjar exhibited ample assurance despite missing three race weekends—he made it clear after practice that his wrist would not hinder him.
Hadjar qualified in fourth place along the Caspian Sea and executed a flawless race, securing his second podium of the season and his third overall in F1. His performance in Baku caught the attention of Red Bull, as Mekies noted during the post-race media briefing.
"What Isack delivered this weekend was truly remarkable," stated Red Bull's team principal. "Initially, the key was that he felt comfortable in the car immediately, with no pain. This means that during our previous meetings over the last few weeks, when we emphasized waiting for Isack to return at 100% because that was the priority, that’s exactly what we achieved.
"He was in the vehicle without any pain. However, even without discomfort, coming back on this tricky track is no easy feat, as there's no room for mistakes."
Hadjar recognized this challenge and methodically built his weekend at one of the most perilous street circuits.
"He progressed his rhythm steadily, session by session, with great composure and a positive mindset," Mekies remarked. "To finish yesterday in P4 was an exceptionally strong outcome. Today, the race pace he demonstrated on both medium and soft tires was something we hadn’t witnessed before.
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
"So during his comeback weekend, he has indeed raised the bar once more. We often say that every time he’s been on track during the first part of the season, he has contributed something new, and that trend continues."
Red Bull impressed by Hadjar's composed radio exchanges
Beyond his outright speed, Mekies was also struck by another element: Hadjar's composure during the initial stint. Red Bull instructed the young French driver to allow Verstappen to pass, yet even when the four-time world champion struggled with the Pirelli medium tire, Hadjar maintained his cool.
"Moreover, I must mention that he raced very intelligently alongside Max, showing great discipline with his tires," Mekies said. "This fostered exceptional teamwork between the two drivers and the pitwall, ultimately yielding the best possible outcome."
This highlights Hadjar's progress in this area. During his time in junior categories and in the early stages of his F1 career, he could often come across as impulsive over the team radio, but Saturday in Baku displayed a stark contrast.
Of course, after several laps, Hadjar inquired if he was clear to attack – to which the team advised him to keep it clean – but the preceding communication was telling. When asked how much faster he could go in clean air, Hadjar responded: "Two or three tenths, but honestly, I'm just happy to be here."
In essence, Hadjar did not insist on reclaiming his position, thereby optimizing the race time for both drivers and enhancing Red Bull’s prospects. When Motorsport.com questioned Mekies about this specific instance, it was evident that this impressed the team principal the most.
Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing
"I think you are pinpointing exactly the right details that offer a deeper understanding of what transpired," Mekies commented.
"It illustrates how astutely the young driver is racing, how much cognitive ability he is developing while in the car, and how effectively he is managing his emotions.
"These are indicators of the progress he has made in these areas, alongside his increasing speed. This trajectory has consistently impressed us since he joined the team, and likely even last year.
"For that reason, we aim to provide him with the optimal environment for continued development because that advancement has truly been remarkable."
Creating that ideal environment includes the contract extension through 2027 and the timing of it. Mekies noted that Red Bull intentionally did this to alleviate any pressure on Hadjar, and as he exited the media session, Mekies chuckled: "I believe Isack repaid our trust today!"
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