Opinion: from heartbreak to heroics, Hadjar proved why self-belief matters in Formula One

From heartbreak to heroics - Isack Hadjar’s season has been the perfect reminder for all of us of why support and self belief matter so much in Formula One, and of course in life in general.

Back in Melbourne, his campaign couldn’t have started worse: nerves, pressure and cruel circumstance combined as he crashed into the barriers on the formation lap of the Australian Grand Prix. For a young driver, that moment must have felt crushing – a personal mistake on the most public of stages. The easy (and entirely natural) option would have been to let the self doubt creep in and allow the noise of the critics to drown out the quiet inner voice of belief.

But Hadjar didn’t, and crucially, he wasn’t left to face the storm alone. One of the most enduring images of the season so far was that of Anthony Hamilton – father of Lewis, who just happens to be Isack’s childhood hero - leaning in, embracing and advising the young Frenchman in the Australian paddock. Anthony has long been admired for his empathy and guidance, having helped Lewis navigate the peaks, troughs and numerous pitfalls of F1. For Anthony to offer words of encouragement to a rookie at such a low ebb carried immense significance. It wasn’t just a kind gesture – it was a public vote of confidence.

It was also the perfect antidote to the infamously ruthless Red Bull young driver programme Isack grew up in. You have made an “embarrassing” mistake (Helmut Marko), the world has witnessed you weep, but if the father of your idol says it’s OK, you will be back to fight another day.

Hadjar pressed on, race by race, building confidence and his reputation. He started to build consistent form, with flashes of raw pace and a steely combative attitude in races. He began to prove that he not only deserved a seat in Formula One – he could thrive in it.

Fast forward to Zandvoort after the summer break, and despite limited practice time, he qualified well and raced ever better. When an oil leak put paid to Lando Norris’s race, Hadjar was there to capitalise, bringing his Racing Bull home for a podium. It was not just a celebration, it was a vindication. Proof that one mistake doesn’t define you, and that redemption is always within reach for those who trust in their own ability.

When asked in an interview if the young Isack Hadjar would have believed the images of him on the podium with Max Verstappen, he somewhat surprisingly replied: “Of course, this is what it has always been about, why else am I here?” It was a great lesson to kids everywhere: fall and rise, just rise stronger.

Support isn’t just what others give you, it’s what you give yourself. I’ll never forget the image of the boy who started his season in despair, but grew in front of our eyes and within five months was spraying champagne on the podium.