Isack Hadjar recently stirred up discussion in the paddock with his candid praise for two of Formula 1’s most legendary figures: Lewis Hamilton and Ayrton Senna. Here’s a closer look at what he said—and why it matters.
“Best” vs “Fastest”
During a media session, the 20-year-old rookie—driving for Racing Bulls—gave a clear breakdown of his thoughts on the two titans:
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“Senna, for me, is the fastest driver of all time.”
Hadjar leaned into Senna’s renowned qualifying and wet-weather lap records: “Whether it’s rain, dry, or mixed conditions, it’s Ayrton Senna.” -
“The best driver of all time is Lewis Hamilton—the whole package.”
He praised Hamilton for his consistency and versatility in all areas of Formula 1 racing. Hadjar described him as the “best Formula 1 driver,” calling attention to Hamilton’s unparalleled complete skillset.
It was a thoughtful statement that balanced recognition of raw speed with performance consistency.
Why These Names Matter
Ayrton Senna – The Pure Speed Demon
Senna is often hailed as the ultimate qualifier—achieving 65 career pole positions and holding the record until edged out by today’s all-time greats. His pace in tricky conditions—most famously, the “Lap of the Gods” at Donington Park in 1993—cements his legacy as the fastest driver ever.
Lewis Hamilton – The Complete Package
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, holds numerous records, including tied record wins and pole positions. His ability across race starts, tyre management, wet and dry conditions, and off-track impact makes him a nearly universal pick for the title of “best ever”.
By differentiating the “fastest” from the “best,” Hadjar acknowledged both the brilliance of pure pace and the complexity of modern grand prix racing.
What Hadjar Said
Hadjar was respectful and clear when discussing the comparison:
“Senna, for me, is the fastest driver of all time … Whether it’s rain, dry, or mixed conditions, it’s Ayrton Senna.”
He then continued:
“I think the best driver of all time is Lewis Hamilton – the best Formula 1 driver – the whole package. But the fastest is definitely Ayrton.”
No hesitation, no pitting one name against the other—he simply celebrated their greatness in different dimensions.
Hadjar’s Perspective: Why It Resonates
1. Recognition of Eras
A rookie of Hadjar’s generation famously separated legends from different eras without slipping into generational debate. He didn’t claim one was better—just that each brought a unique excellence to the sport.
2. A Sign of Growing Maturity
At just 20, Hadjar is showing thoughtfulness, nuance, and respect. That’s exactly why Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko praised him as “the surprise of the season”—not only for skill, but also emotional intelligence.
3. A Nod to F1’s Past and Future
Acknowledging Senna ensures fans remember F1’s rich history. Applauding Hamilton connects rookies like Hadjar to the modern era’s demands and successes. His balanced view bridges generations.
What It Means for Hadjar’s Image
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Credibility and Gravitas
Bringing historical names into his narrative shows that Hadjar isn’t just talented—he’s intellectual and reverent, traits that serve heavily in team environments and media profiles. -
Leadership, Not Just Driving
By articulating thoughtful distinctions, Hadjar hints at leadership—critical for a future possibly extending past his time in the Racing Bulls car.
Final Thoughts
Isack Hadjar’s comments showcase how a reserve-turned-rookie with dual French-Algerian heritage is carving an identity beyond pure lap times. By positioning Senna as the fastest and Hamilton as the best, he pays tribute to two distinct legacies—and asks us all to appreciate greatness in its broader forms.
For fans, for teams, and for the rookie himself, it’s a statement: this is Isack Hadjar—ready to race, ready to reflect, and ready to inspire.
