Helmut Marko reveals why RB star is ‘absolutely’ ready for Formula 1 opportunity

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Helmut Marko is a man who commands a lot of respect in the Formula 1 paddock for his talent-finding capabilities.

He has helped to unearth the likes of Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen who went on to win multiple championships for Red Bull.

While now he is in more of an advisory role to the company, he will still play a part in the team’s direction over the next few years.

It looks as though both Red Bull and Visa Cash App RB will be in need of drivers for 2025 – some of the biggest decisions in their recent history.

Helmut Marko says Isack Hadjar is ‘absolutely’ ready for Formula 1

The current silly season predicament is scrambled – nobody knows whether Liam Lawson will receive a golden ticket to the senior team in 2025, or whether his teammate Yuki Tsunoda will be given a chance.

Franco Colapinto, although an outsider, is a name that has been mentioned in recent times and could be in the picture too.

This is all on the presumption that Sergio Perez, who does have a contract, will lose his seat after the end of the season.

READ MORE: Helmut Marko sees ‘good thing’ for Max Verstappen as Red Bull prepare for Brazil penalty

Looking at their driver academy, Red Bull have some promising youngsters, including Isack Hadjar – currently second in Formula 2.

When quizzed about whether the Frenchman is ready for Formula 1, Marko gave a definitive answer to Kleine Zeitung.

“Yes, absolutely,” he said. “He was about faster than Franco Colapinto in all junior categories.”

Does Hadjar deserve a Formula 1 drive?

Judging by his utterly dominant Formula 2 season until just a few rounds ago, where he led the championship by 34 points at one stage, Hadjar clearly has the pedigree to compete at the highest level.

Presuming that a standard scenario involves one of Lawson or Tsunoda receiving a Red Bull promotion, there will be a seat at the sister VCARB team.

It has been an excellent proving ground for talent through the years, and would provide Hadjar with an opportunity to develop.

READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton advises ‘incredible’ five-point F1 driver to ‘make sure’ of one thing regarding 2025 prospects

With a long-term view to joining the Red Bull team, the youngster could be their solution to lead the junior outfit for the next few seasons.

Otherwise, they risk losing his services, as he fights for an opportunity in the pinnacle of motorsport that his performances warrant.