Isack Hadjar had to fight his way through the field during the Belgian GP. After the young Red Bull driver had to start from the back row due to a grid penalty, he still managed to skillfully work his way into the points thanks to a well-thought-out strategy. His strong comeback race was rewarded with a sixth place. However, Hadjar was far from satisfied afterwards; without the grid penalty, he believed a podium was even possible.
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“If we hadn’t had an engine penalty, we probably would have fought for a podium place,” sighed Hadjar after the Belgian GP. “We had a strong pace and constantly sought clear air.” That strategy ultimately earned Red Bull eight extra World Championship points. Max Verstappen started Sunday from the front row but eventually had to give up second place to Charles Leclerc. The Dutchman finished – against his own expectations – on the podium.
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“This is the best result we could have achieved today,” admitted Hadjar. “The execution was perfect.” Despite his impressive progress, the 21-year-old Parisian missed out on the honorary title Driver of the Day, which went to Leclerc. F1 Academy champion Doriane Pin stated on Canal+ that Hadjar actually deserved that distinction. “I have to agree with her,” joked the Red Bull driver. “Thank you, Doriane.”
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Read everything about the Belgian GP here
