Isack Hadjar Embraces “Home” Atmosphere at Qatar Grand Prix

As the Formula 1 season nears its conclusion, rookie driver Isack Hadjar is gearing up for the Qatar Grand Prix, which he describes as feeling “a bit like a home Grand Prix.” The French-born racer, who drives for Racing Bulls, is enjoying a remarkable debut season that includes a podium finish.

A Special Connection to Qatar

Ahead of the penultimate race of the 2025 Formula One season, Hadjar expressed his personal and professional ties to Qatar during a media session. He noted, “There’s no French Grand Prix, so this is a bit like the home race for me.” His parents often accompany him to Middle Eastern races, making the experience even more meaningful for the 21-year-old.

Hadjar has visited Qatar several times for various events, including racing, football, and training camps. He appreciates the country’s advanced facilities and favorable climate. “I like Qatar. They have the best training facilities. The racetrack is nice. The food is good. The weather is a bit hot, but perfect,” he remarked.

Born in Paris and proud of his Algerian, Syrian, and Moroccan roots, Hadjar feels a strong emotional connection to the region. Competing in front of Middle Eastern fans adds an extra layer of significance to his racing experience. “It’s a region where I feel very comfortable,” he said.

Impressive Rookie Season

Hadjar’s journey in Formula 1 has been extraordinary. He was the last driver announced for the 2025 grid, yet he has already made headlines by finishing third at the Dutch Grand Prix in August, behind fellow racer Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen. “The podium came a lot earlier than I anticipated,” he reflected. “It feels weird to think I’m already an F1 podium finisher when I’ve just started my career. To be in a position where I already have my podium is massive.”

Describing his initial months in the sport as “pretty surreal,” Hadjar has adapted quickly to the demands of Formula 1. “Now it’s been nearly a year, and you’re already used to it,” he said. He often reflects on his rise from go-karting to racing at the highest level.

With only two races left in the season, Hadjar currently sits ninth in the Drivers’ Standings with 51 points and has recorded ten top-10 finishes, including a sixth place in Las Vegas last week. He hopes that his success will inspire more young fans from North Africa and the Middle East to take an interest in Formula 1.

“It’s good that kids watching Formula 1 in this region have a bigger interest now. There are a lot of opportunities to race nowadays. You should just go ahead and find it,” he advised.

As he prepares for the upcoming races, Hadjar emphasizes the importance of hard work and consistency. “Next year there’s a lot to expect because you don’t know what you’re going to get,” he said. He will participate in practice sessions and sprint qualifying at the Lusail International Circuit ahead of the main event on November 29, 2025. Hadjar aims to impress in front of his “home fans” during this high-stakes weekend.