ISACK HADJAR ON THE COVER OF L'ÉQUIPE

MAR 26, 2026

At 21, Isack Hadjar occupies one of the most scrutinised seats in Formula 1. Partnered with Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing — four-time world champion, benchmark of the modern era — the young French driver enters the 2026 season with a challenge that few would envy and even fewer would seek out.

Yet Hadjar does not merely accept the comparison. He embraces it. In a cover interview for L'Équipe magazine, the French-Algerian driver opens up about his preparation, his mindset, and his ambition to compete with — and ultimately beat — not just Verstappen, but the entire Formula 1 grid. It is the kind of candour that has defined Hadjar since his rookie season with Racing Bulls in 2025, where he consistently delivered performances that left little doubt about why Red Bull chose to elevate him so quickly.

The pairing is one of the most compelling storylines of the season. Verstappen remains the reference point around which every teammate is measured, and history has shown that the role comes with considerable pressure. Hadjar, for his part, appears clear-eyed about what lies ahead — and deliberate in how he is approaching it.

The interview, available in the current issue of L'Équipe magazine and on the L'Équipe app, offers a precise and honest portrait of a driver who understands that proximity to greatness is only valuable if you intend to challenge it.