Max Verstappen says Red Bull keeping Isack Hadjar makes sense as Hadjar returns in Azerbaijan

Red Bull has confirmed Isack Hadjar will stay with the team for the 2027 season, and Max Verstappen said the decision “made perfect sense.” Speaking during media day in Baku ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Verstappen said the team benefits from having “continuation” with a driver he “get[s] on very well with,” adding that it allows everyone to focus on the races ahead.

Verstappen’s comments followed Red Bull’s announcement that Hadjar will remain for another year, after being promoted this term following a successful rookie campaign with Racing Bulls. Hadjar returns to action this weekend in Baku after missing the last three Grands Prix due to a wrist injury, with Red Bull’s confirmation positioning his 2027 role as part of a continued Red Bull pathway.

On the performance front, Verstappen said he is aiming for stronger results under the new-for-2026 regulations, while acknowledging Red Bull still lacks outright pace compared with Mercedes and McLaren. He noted he has been on the podium at four of the last five Grands Prix but has not yet won a race in 2026, despite having won twice in Baku previously.

Verstappen also described the current challenge as needing to “drag a performance” to get involved in race-winning contention, stating that the recent races have not featured what he considers a “proper shot” at victory. He pointed to improved consistency and strategy, but said the car “is not fast enough,” adding that further work is required to improve the overall package.

As the Azerbaijan Grand Prix gets underway this weekend, the confirmed headlines are Hadjar’s 2027 contract renewal with Red Bull and his return to the cockpit in Baku after his injury layoff, with Verstappen framing the continuation as beneficial while Red Bull pursues improved competitiveness in the 2026 season.

Written by Vancouver Television Sports Desk