The French driver Ismael Haddar will remain at Red Bull in the 2027 season as Max Verstappen's team-mate, the team confirmed. Haddar, who is 21 years old, was promoted to the senior team this season after a debut year with Racing Bulls.
The head of Red Bull Laurent Mekies described the extension of the partnership as "an easy decision". He highlighted that Haddar had been excellent both on and off the track since joining the team at the beginning of the year, noting that this was only his second season in Formula 1. "Ismael took the step from the first weekend in Melbourne with exceptional calm," said Mekies.
Haddar this season showed himself to be more competitive in relation to Verstappen than any team-mate since Daniel Ricciardo in 2018. In the first part of the season he was 0.239 seconds slower than the Dutchman in qualifying, and Verstappen was surpassed in qualifying three times — in Australia, Japan and Great Britain. In Silverstone Verstappen had a engine with reduced power, while in Australia he hit at the start of qualifying. Haddar's best result this season was third place at the Monaco Grand Prix.
Haddar returns to Red Bull at this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix after missing the last three races due to a broken wrist. The injury was sustained during boxing as part of his training programme. Mekies said that the period of Haddar's injury was difficult.
"I joined the team eight months ago and immediately realised the size and ambition of this organisation," said Haddar. He added that he was aware of the privilege of driving alongside a four-time world champion like Max.
Verstappen signed a two-year extension in August, which is valid until the end of 2030.
