The First Algerian Driver to Participate in Formula 1 : Isack Hadjar’s Rise to the Top

Isack Hadjar, the 20-year-old French-Algerian driver, is making history as the first Algerian to compete in Formula 1 races. A rising star in the motorsport world, Hadjar is set to join the Red Bull Racing Team in 2025, a prestigious move that comes after years of hard work and impressive performances across various racing categories. His journey to Formula 1 is not just a personal triumph but a significant achievement for Algeria in the world of motorsports.

Hadjar’s racing journey began with a simple love for cars, influenced by the movie Cars and his father’s passion for Formula 1. He started karting at the age of 7, and by 2019, he was making his mark in the French F4 Championship. It was in 2021, however, that Hadjar caught the attention of Red Bull Racing. A spectacular victory in Monaco during the Formula Regional European Championship, where he dominated the race with a Grand Chelem—pole position, victory, and fastest lap—earned him a coveted spot in the Red Bull driver academy.

From there, Hadjar quickly progressed through the ranks. He joined Hitech GP for his first season in Formula 3, where he claimed three wins and five podiums, finishing his rookie year in fourth place. Moving to Formula 2 in 2023, Hadjar impressed with consistent performances, although he finished 14th in his debut season. His hard work was rewarded when he was given the opportunity to drive an F1 car during a practice session at the Mexican Grand Prix.

In 2024, Hadjar made a significant leap, joining Campos Racing in Formula 2 and narrowly missing out on the championship title. His stellar performances and rapid rise made it clear that his future in Formula 1 was imminent. With Sergio Perez leaving the team and Liam Lawson moving up, Hadjar was confirmed as Yuki Tsunoda’s teammate for 2025, solidifying his place on the F1 grid.

Hadjar’s story is a testament to his dedication and the strong support from his family, who have been instrumental in his career. His ambition to become an F1 champion, along with his admiration for racing legends like Ayrton Senna and Lewis Hamilton, fuels his drive. As the first Algerian driver to enter the world of Formula 1, Isack Hadjar’s journey is not only a milestone for him but also for the motorsport community in Algeria, inspiring future generations to dream big and pursue their racing ambitions.