In an interview with F1, Visa Cash App RB’s new driver, Isack Hadjar, confessed that his idol is none other than Lewis Hamilton.
December has certainly been a month of significant changes at Red Bull. The team’s split with Sergio Perez, following the Mexican driver’s dismal season, was the final chapter of a lackluster 2024 for the Milton Keynes-based outfit—a year riddled with poor decisions. Failing to seize the opportunity to sign Carlos Sainz, who departed Ferrari and became a free agent in February, and sticking with Perez for too long ultimately left the Austrian team scrambling at the end of the season. They had to carefully assess their junior driver program and explore external options, with Franco Colapinto as a prime contender.
The names of Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar then emerged as top candidates. Lawson had already made waves in 2023, impressing with his debut in Singapore, where he shockingly outqualified Max Verstappen. He continued to deliver strong performances in 2024, stepping in for Daniel Ricciardo, especially excelling in wheel-to-wheel battles (notably against Perez). Hadjar, on the other hand, will make his F1 debut driving for Visa Cash App RB after narrowly losing the F2 championship to Bortoleto, who was driving for Mattia Binotto’s Sauber. This decision marks a “back-to-basics” philosophy for Horner and Marko, giving young talent a chance while hoping not to overwhelm them.
Hadjar: “Lewis Hamilton is my idol”
Visa Cash App’s announcement of Isack Hadjar’s promotion to F1 for 2025 took many by surprise—particularly since Franco Colapinto, a rookie who thrilled fans with action-packed performances at Williams, now risks fading from the F1 spotlight. Nevertheless, the French prodigy from Red Bull’s ranks secured his seat and didn’t hide his excitement when speaking to the media: “I’m absolutely thrilled to take on my new role with VCARB. This is a huge milestone for me. From karting to single-seater categories, and now Formula 1—this is the moment I’ve been working towards my entire life. It’s a dream come true.” “
When asked, “Who inspires you?” Isack replied:”Lewis Hamilton. “Lewis Hamilton. I grew up watching him, and from the age of three, I’ve always been his fan, cheering him on as he won seven titles. I was overjoyed to support my idol dominating the sport. I believe he’s the most complete driver on the grid. Since I started racing, I’ve been even more drawn to Formula 1, and it was clear to me that Lewis was the one to beat—the benchmark for everyone. For me, he’s always been the GOAT. I admire him so much and draw inspiration from everything he does.”“.
Photo: Oracle Red Bull Racing