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Isack Hadjar Outpaces Tsunoda in Abu Dhabi Test, reveals Christian Horner: Secures Spotlight at Racing Bulls

Carl Smith by Carl Smith
December 20, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
Isack Hadjar Outpaces Tsunoda in Abu Dhabi Test, reveals Christian Horner: Secures Spotlight at Racing Bulls

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - DECEMBER 10: Isack Hadjar of France driving the (37) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 on track during Formula 1 testing at Yas Marina Circuit on December 10, 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202412100618 // Usage for editorial use only //

The Formula 1 off-season buzz continues to build as Red Bull team principal Christian Horner reveals rookie Isack Hadjar outperformed Yuki Tsunoda during the recent post-season test in Abu Dhabi. The 20-year-old Frenchman’s blistering pace didn’t just raise eyebrows—it sealed his reputation as Red Bull’s next rising star.


Raw Speed That Turned Heads

Hadjar, who earned his race seat with Red Bull’s sister team Racing Bulls for 2025, has been on the radar for his rapid progression through junior categories. Yet his performance in Abu Dhabi took things to a whole new level. Horner acknowledged the rookie’s standout performance:

“Isack, he’s another talent — he jumped in the car, he was faster than Yuki in the test last week, which turned heads,” Horner said. “He’s definitely a raw talent — he needs a little bit of polishing, but he has the speed.”

With Hadjar delivering lap times quicker than Tsunoda, Red Bull appears confident they’ve unearthed a gem. The timing couldn’t have been better for Hadjar, who has been on the cusp of a breakthrough despite narrowly missing out on the Formula 2 championship due to technical issues.


Tsunoda’s Future in the Balance

While Hadjar’s stock continues to rise, Yuki Tsunoda faces an uncertain path in F1. Overlooked for the coveted Red Bull Racing seat in favor of Liam Lawson, Tsunoda now enters what could be a make-or-break season at Racing Bulls.

Horner empathized with Tsunoda’s disappointment but stressed the unpredictable nature of Formula 1:

“He’s very determined; he knows that things change very quickly,” Horner said. “Who would’ve thought nine months ago we’d be sitting here talking about Liam Lawson being our driver for 2025? Things change quickly in this industry.”


The Rising Star vs. The Veteran

While Tsunoda brings three seasons of F1 experience, Hadjar’s arrival signals a generational shift at Red Bull’s development program. Horner believes Tsunoda’s motivation to prove himself could still earn him a shot at Red Bull Racing in the future. But for now, it’s Hadjar’s raw pace and adaptability that have positioned him as the next big thing in Red Bull’s talent pipeline.


2025: A Crucial Year for Racing Bulls

With the Racing Bulls team poised to utilize upgraded rear suspension and gearbox components, the 2025 season represents an opportunity for both Hadjar and Tsunoda to showcase their potential. Horner remains optimistic about the team’s trajectory, emphasizing the role of new management in pushing Racing Bulls forward.

“The team will naturally take a step forward. It’s up to the drivers to demonstrate that they’re the ones knocking on the door,” Horner added.


What’s Next for Red Bull’s Rising Stars?

As Hadjar steps into the spotlight, all eyes will be on the French rookie to see if his test pace translates into race-day performance. Meanwhile, Tsunoda faces the challenge of proving his worth under immense pressure.

Will Hadjar’s meteoric rise lead to a long-term future with Red Bull Racing? Or can Tsunoda defy the odds and reclaim his spot as a top contender? One thing is certain: the competition within the Red Bull camp is as fierce as ever.

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