While Isack Hadjar has just made his debut on the Singaporean asphalt during the first two Free Practice sessions, the Racing Bulls rookie will take part this Sunday in his first Grand Prix of Formula 1 on the route of the city-state. If its future in the galaxy Red Bull is assured, the Tricolore has promised to make up for its disappointing performance in Baku (Azerbaijan).

ALSO READ > Hadjar fixed on his future at Red Bull, Tsunoda and Lawson in danger

A first Grand Prix in Singapore for Isack Hadjar

In the heat and humidity of the Asian island, Isack Hadjar nevertheless has few illusions: the race will be complicated. “Obviously everyone is talking about the heat inside the car, so it’s going to be a tough race.” admits the Parisian. Isack Hadjar, who achieved his first podium in Formula 1 at the Dutch GP at the end of August, however feels ” comfortable in the car » since the beginning of the year. This was confirmed during the first two free sessions with two top 10s including a fine second place at the end of the second session.

Ahead of what is likely the most challenging race of the season, Isack Hadjar has been preparing himself physically to face the grueling conditions in the cockpit. “Apart from the sauna, there’s not much to do [to prepare]. Japan is quite humid and I’ve already spent a week there, so maybe that will help, hopes the Racing Bulls driver. But I just have to hold on.”

ALSO READ > What is the “extreme heat” status that can be activated during the Singapore GP?

What are the prospects for Racing Bulls on the Marina Bay circuit?

Disappointed with his tenth place in Baku, Isack Hadjar hopes to bounce back this weekend at the wheel of a car efficient on all types of circuits.  “The car works just about everywhere. It’s a healthy car.” underlines the vice-champion of Formula 2. Words already confirmed on track, by his performances in EL1 and EL2 this Friday.

Isack Hadjar remains optimistic about the outlook for the Singapore GP. While his VCARB02 is undeniably effective, the Frenchman believes his car’s package is less suited to the Marina Bay circuit. “These are low-speed corners, just like in Baku. Honestly, I would prefer to be on a circuit with a bit more speed, he concedes. I think it suits our car’s characteristics better. But the car will work again this weekend, there is no risk.” assures the rookie. While remaining cautious, Isack Hadjar sets himself a goal for the qualifications.  “I can’t tell you if it’s a podium car, but it’s definitely a car that can aim for Q3.” promises the Parisian.

It should also be noted that Racing Bulls and Williams are battling for fifth place in the Constructors’ Championship. The Grove team currently enjoys a 29-point lead over that of Faenza. A few months ago in Monaco, Racing Bulls surpassed its rival team in the race. On the principality’s street circuit, Isack Hadjar took sixth place ahead of Liam Lawson, eighth, while Alexander albon et Carlos Sainz had finished in ninth and tenth place.

“The car worked well there [in Monaco], but I know the Williams was also very quick, recalls the man who celebrated his 21st birthday on September 28. I know Alex [Albon] was very quick in Monaco, I remember that. But we, as a team, did a good job of putting everything together and just maximizing the result. The car will definitely be in the mix.” says Isack Hadjar. A good omen for Sunday’s race in Singapore?

ALSO READ > Max Verstappen on the verge of a fifth title? His rivals respond