Laurent Mekies’ promotion to Red Bull brings hope for Hadjar’s future

Isack Hadjar Sees Opportunity with Laurent Mekies Leading Red Bull

Rookie Formula 1 driver Isack Hadjar sees potential opportunities arising from Laurent Mekies’ recent ascension to the helm of the Red Bull team. The 20-year-old Frenchman, touted as a future Red Bull star, reacted on Thursday to Mekies stepping in as team principal after Christian Horner’s surprise dismissal earlier this month.

Hadjar, currently with Racing Bulls, believes that Mekies, his compatriot, could provide a key advantage if he were to make the jump to the championship-winning Red Bull team. Hadjar is widely considered a top contender to replace Yuki Tsunoda, whose performance has been underwhelming since moving up to partner Max Verstappen.

"If I had to work with him [Mekies], it would be easier, that's for sure. It would sound more familiar," Hadjar said while speaking to reporters ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix. "I can't hide it, it's useful. For sure. But we'll see. Twelve more races, so I need to keep pushing. You're only as good as your last race."

Hadjar revealed he was driving the team’s simulator on July 9 when news broke of Horner’s unexpected exit, coupled with Alan Permane stepping in to replace Mekies as Racing Bulls’ team boss. However, Hadjar has remained steadfast in his focus, suggesting that the changes won’t significantly impact his approach.

"It doesn't really change much for me at the moment," Hadjar explained. "Alan is someone I know really well. He was always quiet—you don't see him often—but he's been a big part of the team so far. He's been very close to Laurent. Laurent has built something very solid over the last two years, and now he's just taking it [on]. It doesn't change anything to the team or to my approach."

With 21 points in 12 races and a best result of sixth place in Monaco, Hadjar is determined to let his performance on the track do the talking. He also expressed respect for Mekies’ leadership style, describing him as well-regarded within the team due to his engineering background.

"I think Laurent was really appreciated in the team. A bit of sadness obviously [to see him go]," Hadjar added.

Hadjar’s Racing Bulls teammate Liam Lawson, who began the season at Red Bull before being replaced by Tsunoda and sent back to Racing Bulls after two races, downplayed the effect of the structural changes on his focus and the team’s operations.

"I don't think we have lost anything with regards to Alan filling his [Mekies'] position," Lawson said. "But I think something that Laurent has been very, very good at is leading the team and having everybody around him… keeping the motivation very high. He was very, very good for that. Works very, very hard. He is [was] always here."

Lawson admitted that Horner’s exit came as a surprise, revealing he found out via a press release before exchanging texts with the now-former Red Bull boss. Despite the transition, Lawson remains optimistic about remaining in Mekies’ good graces as Red Bull continues to evaluate its driver lineup.

"I'm sure the communication with Laurent will stay as it has been because he's somebody that is very supportive," Lawson added. "But in terms of what it means for my future, I honestly don't know at this point."

With 12 races left in the season, Hadjar and Lawson are keeping their focus on delivering strong performances to secure their place in the Red Bull family. Mekies’ promotion may have introduced uncertainty into the team’s operations, but both drivers are clearly determined to adapt and make the most of the new leadership setup. As the Formula 1 season charges ahead, all eyes will be on these young talents to see how they capitalize on the opportunities that arise.

Up Next