Some Sundays are unforgettable. Today, in grey Zandvoort, will remain etched in the heart of Isack Hadjar, who at just 20 years of age claimed his first Formula 1 podium. After five races without scoring any points, the Frenchman made the most of the summer break. His need for redemption was evident, as he admitted in Thursday's press conference:
"It's not a track I particularly love, but the important thing is to give it my all, be fast and try to score points"
From the first free practice sessions, Isack proved to be competitive. In qualifying, he pulled off a textbook lap, which earned him a spot on the second row, alongside a certain Max Verstappen. It was an unexpected but well-deserved fourth place. The young Racing Bulls talent knew that keeping up with Ferrari and Mercedes for 72 laps would be tough. The podium was not even in his thoughts.
Everything can change
However, the race was unpredictable and full of twists and turns. Hadjar was a constant: fast, clear-headed, consistent, never overdoing it. He raced with the maturity of a veteran. While chaos took shape around him - with unexpected retirements and frequent Safety Cars - he never lost the rhythm or concentration that had distinguished him from the start.
The chequered flag marked many emotions: his first podium in Formula 1 in his debut season, as well as the return of Racing Bulls among the greats, an absence that had lasted for four seasons:
"It feels surreal. The thing that surprised me the most was being able to hold on to fourth place for the whole race. What a fantastic day. I'm so happy for my guys"
In a chaotic Dutch Grand Prix, Hadjar shone brighter than ever. When talent meets determination, dreams can become reality. And if this was his debut... The best is yet to come.
Read the original version (italian): https://www.formula1.it/news/26564/1/isack-hadjar-tutto-cuore-a-zandvoort?a=1
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