Sep.2 (GMM) Olivier Panis says Isack Hadjar’s beautiful Zandvoort podium proves the 20-year-old rookie has the character to succeed alongside Max Verstappen at Pink Bull.
“What I like most is his dedication,” the previous F1 winner and fellow Frenchman advised RMC Sport.
“He’s not afraid of something, he doesn’t hand over, and fights 100%. He’s very mature for a 20-year-old. Frankly, it’s fairly spectacular,” added Panis.
Hadjar grew to become the youngest Frenchman ever to face on an F1 podium at Zandvoort, fuelling hypothesis that the Racing Bulls newcomer will virtually actually now change Yuki Tsunoda subsequent 12 months.
“I discover freshness with this younger man,” Panis continued. “He says what he thinks, he’s very outspoken. Others now are too clean, solely political language – that’s by no means been a part of my persona. Isack is the brand new man who arrives and is reaching nice outcomes.”
Nevertheless, Panis admits the Pink Bull seat alongside Max Verstappen may be daunting for potential candidates. “Is it a cursed seat? Sure and no,” he mentioned.
“Max is an distinctive driver, he units up the automotive for himself. It’s not a straightforward selection, however how will you say no to a prime crew?
“If there’s a threat to be taken, it have to be taken now. Subsequent 12 months with the brand new automotive, every thing might be known as into query. What does he should lose? Max was 18 when he received his seat. Isack has proven his pace, his dedication, he manages his tyres properly, he has character.
“I don’t see why it wouldn’t work.”
The 1996 Monaco GP winner even in contrast Hadjar to in the present day’s elite children. “He’s a bit like Piastri – a personality who doesn’t make noise, who does his job, who wins races. Isack is a part of this new technology, like Norris – very full guys.
“He has the expertise to combat with the most effective.”
In the meantime, Spanish media report that Hadjar will obtain a brand new trophy after by chance breaking his first one within the post-race celebrations.
“Together with the Dutch GP, we clearly need the third-place winner to obtain the trophy they deserve,” mentioned Royal Delft, which produces the porcelain cups.
“We’re going to fabricate a brand new trophy for Hadjar. The damaged trophy stays with him – a memento of a legendary second for him.”
