Isack Hadjar, after his EL1 at Silverstone: “As if it were the first time again”

Marathon day for Isack Hadjar this Friday. After the free practice session Formula 2 played at 10 a.m. local time, the Habs climbed for the third time in their career in a F1 during a first free practice session on a Grand Prix weekend. The Habs had barely left the car from Checo Pérez that he already had to return to the F2 paddock to prepare before the crucial qualification in view of his quest for the title.

However, he took the time to briefly answer a few questions in French, in particular detailing his run plan. “At the beginning, it was mainly an aero test. I shouldn't take the vibrators, and I didn't want to push. Then, on the same tires, I did my first performance laps. I was only able to do two on these worn hard rubbers. Then I ended up switching to new mediums.” Disappointed not to have passed the red eraser? “Obviously, but I have no regrets about my turn. Progress was good throughout the session. With the software, it could have been good weather.” 

Isack is locked and loaded for FP1 🔒

???? @vladimirrys #F1 || #BritishGP pic.twitter.com/oT2dzbS2mp

- Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) July 5, 2024

Isack Hadjar, still impressed by F1

The Habs may have already driven twice in an F1 last year – in theAlpha Tauri in Mexico and in Red Bull in Abu Dhabi – we obviously had to find our bearings! “It’s like it’s my first time riding in the car all over again! Mexico City and Abu Dhabi took place so long ago (October and November 2023). We drive so little in EL1 that it surprised me a little (smile). It was once again impressive.”

Nineteenth due in particular to his low number of laps and the absence of running on the soft rubber, he satisfied his team, who had asked him to bring the car back in one piece without seeking performance, while testing certain aerodynamic arrangements, while Max Verstappen is equipped this weekend with a new flat bottom.

The only downside is the little incident which pitted him against Lando Norris at the end of the session and for which he will have to go to the commissioners. “It was at the exit of turn 1, we didn't see muchhe explained. On the radio, I was not warned. I shifted at the last moment, and fortunately, he reacted well. Now it’s time for F2 qualifying!

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