Isack Hadjar: The Rise of ‘Petit Prost’ and His Journey to Formula 1
In the high-octane world of Formula 1, where precision and performance are paramount, few stories are as compelling as that of Isack Hadjar, the 20-year-old French-Algerian driver who has swiftly ascended the motorsport ladder to join the elite grid.
Early Life and Karting Beginnings
Born on 28 September 2004 in Paris to a family with Algerian roots, Hadjar's fascination with racing ignited at the tender age of seven after watching the animated film Cars. His parents, both professionals in the fields of physics and medicine, supported his burgeoning passion by gifting him a go-kart, setting the wheels in motion for his racing career. By 2012, Hadjar was competing in karting events, and by 2018, he had made his mark on the international karting scene.
Rise Through the Junior Formulas
Transitioning from karting, Hadjar debuted in the French F4 Championship in 2019, securing his first victory at Spa-Francorchamps. The following year, he clinched three more wins, culminating in a third-place finish in the championship standings. His upward trajectory continued in 2021 with a move to the Formula Regional European Championship, where he showcased his talent by finishing fifth overall. In 2022, Hadjar's prowess was on full display in the FIA Formula 3 Championship, where he achieved multiple victories and concluded the season in fourth place. His impressive performances caught the attention of the Red Bull Junior Team, leading to his induction into their esteemed driver development programme.
Formula 2 Success and the 'Petit Prost' Moniker
The 2023 season saw Hadjar step up to the FIA Formula 2 Championship. After a challenging rookie year, he made a significant impact in 2024 by securing his maiden F2 victory in Melbourne, followed by another triumph at Imola. These achievements earned him the nickname 'Petit Prost' in the French media, a nod to the legendary four-time F1 World Champion Alain Prost. Hadjar's consistent performances throughout the season led to a runner-up finish in the championship, underscoring his readiness for the pinnacle of motorsport.
Transition to Formula 1 with Racing Bulls
Hadjar's ascent to Formula 1 was cemented with his signing by Racing Bulls (formerly AlphaTauri) for the 2025 season, where he partners with Yuki Tsunoda. His debut weekend at the Australian Grand Prix, however, presented unforeseen challenges. During the formation lap, in wet and slippery conditions, Hadjar's car spun and made contact with the barriers, resulting in a premature end to his inaugural race before it had officially begun.
A Moment of Compassion Amidst Adversity
The incident left Hadjar visibly distraught, but the paddock witnessed a touching moment of sportsmanship and empathy. Anthony Hamilton, father of seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, approached the young driver upon his return to the paddock. Offering words of comfort and placing a reassuring arm around Hadjar, Hamilton exemplified the camaraderie and support that underpin the racing community, even amidst fierce competition.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback in Melbourne, Hadjar's journey to Formula 1 remains a testament to his resilience, talent, and dedication. As the season progresses, the motorsport world will be keenly observing how 'Petit Prost' harnesses his experiences, both triumphant and challenging, to carve out his legacy in Formula 1.
