Isack Hadjar didn't just return from injury at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix — he came back with a statement. The Frenchman delivered a standout performance to claim a podium finish and further underline his place in the Red Bull hierarchy after recently signing a long-term deal.
This was more than a recovery drive. Hadjar showed pace, composure and team discipline to secure a third-place finish in Baku and help Red Bull land a crucial double podium.
Key Takeaways from Baku
- Isack Hadjar secured a stunning third-place podium finish at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
- His return followed a wrist injury and a newly signed Red Bull contract extending to 2027.
- F1 TV pundits Alex Brundle and Damon Hill praised his "exceptional comeback" and highlighted his team-player mentality.
- Red Bull secured a vital double podium, with Max Verstappen finishing second and boosting the team's constructors' championship campaign.
Hadjar Makes Triumphant F1 Return
The roar of the engines in Baku marked an impressive comeback for Isack Hadjar. Fresh from a wrist injury, the Frenchman returned to the cockpit and immediately found himself on the podium. His third-place finish came shortly after securing a Red Bull contract through 2027, adding further significance to an already impressive weekend.
Hadjar also played his part in securing a crucial double podium for the Milton Keynes squad alongside teammate Max Verstappen. He capitalised on a late lock-up by McLaren's Oscar Piastri to take advantage of the opportunity and secure third.
Brundle Hails Hadjar's "Exceptional Comeback"
F1 TV pundit Alex Brundle was quick to praise Hadjar's performance, highlighting both his raw pace and his willingness to put the team's interests first. Brundle noted that Hadjar earned "team-mate points" by following team orders, showing that his performance was about more than outright speed.
"Hadjar really had an exceptional comeback today and has earned himself some good team-mate points for playing the game," Brundle stated, underlining the importance of his strategic discipline.
Damon Hill Praises Red Bull's Fighting Spirit
1996 Formula 1 world champion Damon Hill also praised the performance, shifting the focus to the wider significance for Red Bull. Hill highlighted the team's aggressive approach and its ability to keep fighting for victories despite its various internal evolutions.
"They are an aggressive attacking racing team who take chances. They're always fighting for things, and they're incredible," Hill commented, recognising the competitive spirit that continues to drive the Red Bull stable.
Red Bull's Championship Charge Intensifies
The double podium in Baku provides a significant boost to Red Bull's constructors' championship campaign. Max Verstappen currently sits sixth in the drivers' standings with 163 points, while Isack Hadjar has moved into eighth with 86 points.
Combined with points scored by Liam Lawson during Hadjar's recovery, Red Bull now sits fourth in the constructors' standings with 263 points. The Baku result gives Red Bull a strong foundation for the remainder of the season, with the combination of its drivers and the team's competitive spirit setting the stage for an intriguing fight ahead.
