2024 FIA Formula 2 runner-up, the French-Algerian driver, who served as Red Bull and Racing Bulls’ reserve driver at the end of the season, is set to join the Formula 1 grid in 2025. After steady progress, the 2019 Trophée Winfield winner is ready to embrace his destiny.
The young Isack Hadjar has an impressive pedigree. Born in Paris to a family of scientists, his background stands out in the world of motorsport. No billionaire father, no former F1 legend in his family tree—just a lineage of researchers. His father holds a PhD in quantum physics, while his mother, also from a scientific background, chose to pursue a career in human resources. Isack seemed destined for an academic path, but he wanted to pursue excellence on the track instead. His choice was largely influenced by his father’s passion for motorsport, as he was an amateur racing driver himself. By the age of 10, Isack was behind the wheel of a kart, competing in various French and European championships, excelling in the Junior category in 2018. At that point, he decided it was time to move up to single-seaters.
“I was looking to transition from karting to single-seaters, and I heard about the Volant Winfield program, which had been relaunched in 2018,” he explains. “I was only 14 at the time and had no idea what the Winfield name represented. Since I was too young to compete for the ‘Volant,’ I participated in the ‘Trophée,’ which was reserved for drivers under 16. Honestly, I wasn’t there to win the ‘Trophée Winfield’. My only goal was to experience driving a single-seater and gain some experience ahead of the French F4 Championship I was preparing for. And then, I found myself in a position to win it—which I managed to do, somewhat to everyone’s surprise. It was a surprise to me and pretty unexpected since I only had two days of Formula 4 experience.
It wasn’t until after winning the ‘Trophée’ that I really learned about Winfield Racing School and realized the significance of its legacy. I was almost overwhelmed when I discovered the names of the past winners. I never imagined such prestige and recognition, and it reassured me that I had achieved something important for my future. Something that would stay with me. It also confirmed my belief that making it to the F1 grid one day was possible, and that I had to work hard and stay determined. It wasn’t arrogance—just a deep sense of conviction. I knew it was just the first step, but I was happy to have taken it. It meant it was worth continuing. Winning the ‘Trophée’ was the highlight of my season.”
Isack Hadjar during the 2019 Trophée Winfield at the Paul Ricard circuit.
Hard work and determination are the two qualities that define Isack Hadjar. Some drivers give off an air of being able to move mountains, and that’s exactly what everyone at Winfield felt in 2019 when he left an unforgettable impression. It’s a moment he remembers fondly as well. “The atmosphere was just amazing,” he says with a smile when recalling his experience at the Circuit Paul Ricard. “The group, sharing the car with other drivers, the physical tests… I loved it all. Back then, I was counting every lap in the F4, and each one meant significant progress for me.”
For him, the transition from karting to single-seaters went surprisingly smooth, as he adapted almost instantly. “The switch didn’t seem so difficult to me,” he recalls with amusement. “The single-seater was bigger, more imposing on the track, but the principle was the same as karting. I didn’t take long to get used to it. I felt comfortable right away, partly thanks to the conditions we were provided with. The smooth transition was all thanks to Winfield. This ideal introduction allowed me to start off on the right foot.”
The latest French hopeful to enter the world of Grand Prix racing, Isack Hadjar, who races under a French license, will also be the first Algerian driver to compete in Formula 1. This is yet another distinctive feature in a profile that is anything but ordinary.
Photo credits: Thomas Fenêtre
