As Formula 1 arrives in Melbourne for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, Isack Hadjar is focused on extracting the most from a weekend that follows a less-than-ideal preparation.
The French driver arrives in Melbourne with higher expectations than he faced a year ago. But his build-up to the season opener has not been straightforward.
Technical problems during testing limited Hadjar’s running, leaving him with fewer laps than planned ahead of his first race weekend of the year.
“Yeah, I mean, not an ideal preparation for me, but it’s nothing I can do,” Hadjar told media, including Motorsport Week, at Albert Park.
“I made the most of the few mileage I had and, you know, worked out on the sim, so I’ll try my best to get as ready as possible for this weekend.”
The Albert Park Circuit also presents a specific challenge under F1’s current regulations: energy management. Managing the hybrid system and battery deployment across the lap will be crucial.
However, Hadjar is not concerned about the difficulty relative to his rivals.
“And yeah, in terms of the battery management, it’s definitely going to be a big challenge, but it’s the same for everyone.”
A return to familiar expectations for Isack Hadjar
While the preparation has been less than ideal, the expectations surrounding Hadjar have shifted significantly compared to last season.
Twelve months ago, he was part of a midfield effort where scoring points was the primary goal.
Now he enters the campaign with ambitions that stretch to podiums and victories.
For Hadjar, that situation feels far more natural.
“I was fighting for podiums and wins since Go-Kart, so actually last year was something I wasn’t used to,” he explained.
“And now, knowing that I can have a shot at better results is what I’m here for. So now, I prefer to be in this position.”
Long-term focus despite early questions at Red Bull
Pre-season testing has sparked early debate about the competitive order under the new regulations, particularly with teams adapting to new power units.
“I think on one lap pace, I don’t think we are special. It might be a bit tricky,” he said.
“But honestly, what happens in the first race, who cares?
“It’s how you finish the year anyway, and how you build on the next few years is what really matters.”
Expectations for his former team
Hadjar also reflected on his former team, Racing Bulls, and former teammate Liam Lawson.
He believes the competitive spread across the grid may be wider in 2026 compared to last year. This could make life more difficult for the team.
“I mean, now the gaps have, I think, around the field, it’s spread a bit more,” he said.
“Last year, the VCARB was within a second of the fastest car, and this year it’s not anymore, so it’s definitely not going to be as nice for him, that’s for sure, but I’m sure he’s going to make the most of the car, like he does.”
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