Former Red Bull drivers Alex Albon and Sergio Perez believe Isack Hadjar has the ability to thrive as Max Verstappen's new team-mate.

Hadjar was promoted to the Red Bull team ahead of the 2026 Formula One season, replacing Yuki Tsunoda as their second driver.

The Frenchman won 51 points last season with Racing Bulls, level on points with Nico Hulkenberg in 11th in the drivers' standings.

His best finish came at the Dutch Grand Prix, where he achieved his first podium in F1, coming third in the Netherlands.

Both Albon and Perez tried their luck as Verstappen's team-mates in the past, with the latter playing a crucial role in the Dutchman's first title win, but neither could succeed in the role.

However, with the new regulations in place for the 2026 campaign, Albon and Perez have backed Hadjar to succeed.

Perez, who is returning to the grid with Cadillac, said: "I think he's ready to come into Red Bull with such a change in the regulations.

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"I think Isack is a very talented driver; he's shown that, and I'm sure as long as he stays cool throughout the year, he will have a very successful career in Formula 1.

"Being team-mates with Max at Red Bull, it's a great team, so I think it's a great place for him to be in at this point of his career. I think it's a massive opportunity."

Albon added: "I think Isack is a quick driver, and I think actually a lot of this regulation change will be good. It's a fresh start for everyone.

"Based on what I've seen so far, he seems to be quite comfortable with the car. I think it's a lot of learning to do, not just in terms of having a quick team-mate, but the car itself, so I think he's gonna do okay."

The new season gets underway on March 8, with the 2026 F1 calendar starting with the Australian Grand Prix.