Isack Hadjar has acknowledged feeling "scared" ahead of his first Formula 1 season in 2025 but remains determined to prove himself at the highest level - with eyes on a future at Red Bull Racing.
The F2 runner-up was the last driver confirmed for the upcoming season, securing his seat at Racing Bulls as Liam Lawson moves up to Red Bull Racing.
Recently, the 20-year-old—whom Dr Helmut Marko has described as "fast" but also "very impulsive"—admitted to Canal Plus, "Honestly, I'm scared."
Now, in an interview with L'Equipe, Hadjar elaborated, explaining that his nerves stem from his lack of F1 experience.
So what are his expectations heading into his debut season?
"It's hard to say," Hadjar admitted. "From a technical point of view, I obviously lack a lot of data."
For instance, he concedes that he has "no idea" what it feels like to drive with a full tank of fuel.
"I still need to lay those foundations. I need experience," he said.
Despite his concerns, Hadjar has set ambitious targets for his first year.
"To get into Q3 straight away and score points straight away," he said when asked about his immediate goals.
"I would also like to get my first podium finish," he added.
Hadjar fought closely with fellow 2025 rookie Gabriel Bortoleto in the F2 title battle last year, but he expects his debut F1 campaign to be a completely different challenge.
"This year will be much more strange, fascinating, and terrifying," he admitted. "I don't know how it's going to go yet."
However, his long-term aspirations remain clear.
"I want to drive for Red Bull, but only if I'm good enough, definitely not before," Hadjar smiled. "This year is a learning year for me."
