Isack Hadjar qualified third for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, reportedly demonstrating a lap time within four tenths of teammate Max Verstappen’s pole position effort. Verstappen secured pole position today at the Sepang International Circuit.
Hadjar’s performance marks a significant showing for the Red Bull Racing driver, who is in his first season with the senior team. He has consistently aimed to match Verstappen’s pace throughout the current 2026 season.
Despite his third-place qualifying result, Hadjar will start the Bahrain Grand Prix from eighth position. This five-place grid penalty was issued for exceeding the permitted internal combustion engine (ICE) allowance, having taken a seventh ICE.
The strong qualifying pace from Hadjar comes amidst ongoing challenges for Red Bull Racing during the 2026 Formula 1 season. Technical Director Pierre Waché has openly acknowledged ‘limitations’ within the RB22 car.
Waché has stated that the team currently has ‘no confidence’ in the car, noting that a ‘different problem’ arises with each outing. This assessment aligns with earlier season comments where Waché indicated Red Bull was behind key rivals.
The primary issues for the RB22 are understood to lie with the chassis, which falls under Waché’s technical jurisdiction. In contrast, the new in-house Ford power unit has reportedly performed reasonably well.
Both Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar have voiced concerns regarding the RB22’s inconsistent and unpredictable handling characteristics this season.
Internal tension and staff dissatisfaction have also been reported within the Milton Keynes-based team, adding to the operational complexities.
Despite the team’s broader struggles and his grid penalty, Hadjar expressed confidence in his ability to progress through the field during tomorrow’s race.
