Hadjar replaces Verstappen: 'I need to get the job done and help Max'

A crucial weekend has arrived for Isack Hadjar. The Red Bull Racing talent could become Formula 2 champion, with the title race going down to the wire with Gabriel Bortoleto. Firstly, there is another important moment ahead. Hadjar has replaced 2024 champion Max Verstappen in the first free practice for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Hadjar plans to handle his session in Verstappen's F1 car wisely. "The plan for tomorrow is to keep the car safe. And if I have the opportunity to push at some point and show my speed, that would be great," the Red Bull reserve responded to a question from GPblog.

"Obviously, every time I jump in the car, it's to deliver, not to drive 80%. But at the same time, you have to be really careful. There's not much pressure, to be fair," he added. The French F2 driver is feeling relaxed ahead of the battle for seats at Red Bull and VCARB for 2025. He may feel that more during the post-season test after the weekend.

"I have the Tuesday as well. I think Tuesday is going to be more important; much more laps for me to show something in the rookie test. So I'm really looking forward to that Tuesday session as well. But tomorrow, I just need to get the job done for the engineers and help a bit Max with his weekend," Hadjar concluded.

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