Rising Formula 1 star Isack Hadjar is set to join Red Bull Racing in 2026, replacing Yuki Tsunoda and becoming Max Verstappen’s new teammate. The move marks a major statement of trust from Red Bull, coming after Hadjar’s breakout rookie season with Racing Bulls — a campaign highlighted by his podium at the Dutch Grand Prix.
Sources indicate that Hadjar has signed a 1+1 year contract, a structure Red Bull often uses for young drivers entering the senior team.
What does a 1+1 contract mean?
A 1+1 deal means:
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One guaranteed year (2026) with Red Bull
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An optional extension for 2027, activated either by the team or mutually, depending on performance benchmarks
Red Bull retains strong control under this format — giving them flexibility if Hadjar impresses, or freedom to move him back to Racing Bulls if needed.
Hadjar’s estimated salary: €6 million with performance cuts
Hadjar’s package is reportedly worth around €6 million, placing him in the mid-range tier for Red Bull drivers.
However, there are performance-linked clauses, including:
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A reduction in salary if key targets such as points, qualifying averages, or race-craft metrics aren’t met
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A review clause tied to Red Bull’s internal simulator and development performance
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A “team-fit assessment” that gives Red Bull the right to activate their second-year option only if they see long-term potential
These clauses are standard for Red Bull rookies, aimed at maintaining internal competitiveness.
Demotion risk remains — Red Bull’s famous system
As with Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Daniil Kvyat and Yuki Tsunoda earlier:
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Demotion is always a possibility
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Red Bull can shift drivers between Red Bull and Racing Bulls at any moment
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Yuki Tsunoda will remain in the system as reserve/test driver and could replace anyone across both teams in emergencies
This contract keeps Hadjar within Red Bull’s high-pressure environment — but also places him at the risk of quick reshuffling if results dip.
Why Red Bull chose Hadjar
Hadjar’s 2025 rookie season impressed senior leadership:
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A podium finish at Zandvoort
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Strong wheel-to-wheel racing
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Consistent qualifying pace
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Composure under pressure, despite Racing Bulls’ inconsistent package
Meanwhile, Tsunoda’s form dipped, and his long-time Honda backing becomes irrelevant as Red Bull switches to its own in-house engines from 2026.
The 2026 Red Bull–Racing Bulls lineup
Red Bull Racing
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Max Verstappen
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Isack Hadjar
Racing Bulls
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Liam Lawson
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Arvid Lindblad (teenage sensation promoted early)
Tsunoda moves to a factory-wide role as reserve/test driver.
What this means for 2026
Hadjar enters Red Bull at a pivotal moment:
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The sport adopts new aerodynamic regulations
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Red Bull launches its first in-house power unit
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Verstappen, Norris and Piastri are expected to headline the title fight
For Hadjar, this 1+1 deal is both a massive opportunity and an intense challenge.
