Sergio Perez believes that even top drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc would face a tough challenge if they were teammates with Max Verstappen at Red Bull. Perez issued a strong warning to Isack Hadjar, who is expected to become Verstappen’s new partner soon.
Hadjar secured his spot in Formula One following Perez’s departure from Red Bull, showcasing impressive performances with a podium finish and multiple top-10 results in 2025. His success has positioned him as a frontrunner to join Verstappen in 2026, especially considering Yuki Tsunoda’s struggles and Liam Lawson’s previous difficulties.
Perez advised Hadjar to carefully consider the demanding nature of partnering with Verstappen at Red Bull, emphasizing the challenges and pressures that come with the role. Despite Hadjar’s unexpected rise in the sport, the constant speculation and attention have started to affect him, with the young driver expressing a desire to focus on his performance in the remaining races of the season.
Red Bull’s team principal, Helmut Marko, indicated that crucial decisions regarding the driver line-up will be made after the Mexican Grand Prix, setting the stage for a pivotal moment in the careers of Hadjar, Lawson, and Tsunoda. Hadjar, starting in eighth position on the grid behind championship leader Oscar Piastri, acknowledged the importance of performing well in the upcoming race to make a difference.
Reflecting on his season, Hadjar expressed contentment with his progress and determination to continue pushing forward. As the racing season unfolds, the pressure mounts for the young driver to deliver standout performances and solidify his place in the competitive world of Formula One.