F1 analyst Tom Clarkson has expressed surprise regarding the relaxed interaction observed between Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar during the recent São Paulo Grand Prix weekend. Clarkson noted a distinct shift in the dynamic between the Red Bull Racing teammates.
The 2026 São Paulo Grand Prix, held on November 8, saw Lando Norris secure victory. Max Verstappen finished second after starting 21st, with Isack Hadjar completing the podium in third place. This marked a double podium finish for Red Bull Racing.
Hadjar, who joined Oracle Red Bull Racing for the 2026 season, has demonstrated consistent performance. The São Paulo result was his third podium of the current season, following third-place finishes in Monaco and Azerbaijan.
During the São Paulo event, Clarkson observed Verstappen and Hadjar conversing extensively about their car experiences. They discussed aspects such as grip levels and cockpit visibility. This interaction occurred while they awaited Lando Norris for a press conference.
Clarkson conveyed his observations on the F1 Nation podcast, stating he was taken aback by their amicable conduct. He suggested this level of rapport had not been consistently present between Verstappen and his teammates since Daniel Ricciardo’s departure in 2018.
The analyst further described Hadjar’s role as exceeding that of a conventional second driver. Clarkson characterized Hadjar’s position within the team as ‘one and a half,’ indicating a more significant contribution than a traditional number two.
James Hinchcliffe, also speaking on the F1 Nation podcast, commended Hadjar’s performance in São Paulo. Hinchcliffe specifically highlighted Hadjar’s execution in the challenging wet conditions during the race.
However, Hinchcliffe also noted that Red Bull Racing continues to reinforce Verstappen’s primary driver status to Hadjar. He referenced specific radio communications from the team to Hadjar during recent weeks.
A notable incident during the São Paulo Grand Prix involved a team order. On lap 38, Hadjar was instructed to allow Verstappen to pass him for second position. This was intended to enable Verstappen to challenge race leader Norris.
Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies later confirmed that the team had considered reversing the positions. However, worsening weather conditions and the increasing gap between the two drivers ultimately prevented this reversal.
Hadjar expressed some frustration regarding the team order, questioning over the radio what would happen if Verstappen failed to catch Norris. He later apologized for what he termed an ‘awkward situation’ with Verstappen.
Verstappen, who started 21st due to a power unit penalty, reported unusual balance issues with his car after moving into second place. Despite this, his recovery drive secured a crucial second-place finish for the team.
Hadjar currently holds eighth position in the Drivers’ Championship with 122 points. He has maintained a consistent points-scoring record, despite missing three Grands Prix due to a wrist injury earlier in the season.
