Former F1 driver Giedo van der Garde delves deeper into the relationships between teammates in Formula 1 in his column in FORMULE 1 Magazine. He himself once disturbed his teammate’s sleep. And what does Max Verstappen have at Red Bull in his new wingman Isack Hadjar?
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Read a part of Giedo van der Garde’s column from the 2026 season guide of FORMULE 1 Magazine below.
“It’s a cliché, but in motorsport your teammate is your most important competitor. And then everything is allowed to ensure you finish ahead of them. On the track. And off it.
During my F1 season at Caterham, I once had someone knock on my teammate Charles Pic’s room door a few times at night to disturb his sleep, in the hope that he would be a bit less sharp in qualifying the next day. As drivers, we were evenly matched, so you automatically push the limits.
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Different relationships
But not every teammate is the same. Max Verstappen will be dealing with Isack Hadjar this season. Those relationships are, of course, quite different. You hope in advance that Hadjar will get somewhat close to Max, and in that sense, he has the advantage of the new regulations and engines. That helps Hadjar find his own way and make choices.
Last season, Max was often portrayed as a mentor to the newest generation, guys like Kimi Antonelli and Gabriel Bortoleto. I suspect he will also be open with Isack Hadjar about his set-ups and things he is trying. Max is always chill and relaxed. Although, there is a limit to everything. Because if your teammate really gets close, you as a driver have to change your approach and start playing more games. Occasionally knocking on a hotel door and so on. Because close is fine, passing is not…”
Read everything about the Chinese GP here
Read the full column by Giedo van der Garde in the latest edition of FORMULE 1 Magazine, which is out now! Get it in stores now or order it online, with free delivery throughout the Netherlands.
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