DOHA:

Star rookie Isack Hadjar told AFP he would relish "the incredible opportunity" of becoming teammate at Red Bull next season.

The 21-year-old is considered favourite to move up from Red Bull's sister team Racing Bulls to replace Yuki Tsunoda alongside Verstappen in 2026.

Reports suggest Red Bull are due to confirm the identity of Verstappen's new teammate next week.

Aware of the magnitude of the challenge that might await him, the Frenchman nonetheless sees a partnership with Verstappen as a decisive step in his career.

"Against my teammates, I've always been stronger," but "alongside the best in the world, it's an incredible opportunity to learn", he told AFP in Doha ahead of this weekend's Qatar Grand Prix and sprint race.

Hadjar is under no illusions of the task he could face

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