Racing Bulls driver Isack Hadjar has shared details of a deeply emotional conversation with Anthony Hamilton, father of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, after his heartbreaking crash at the Australian Grand Prix. The young French driver was visibly distraught following the incident and was comforted by Hamilton senior, who offered words of encouragement during a tough moment in Hadjar’s fledgling Formula 1 career.
A Painful Debut in Melbourne
The 20-year-old rookie had been looking forward to making his mark in the season-opening race at Albert Park, but his debut ended in disaster before the race had even begun. Lining up in 11th place on the grid, Hadjar set off on the formation lap but lost control of his car after navigating through Turn 1. The Racing Bulls driver spun into the barriers with considerable force, inflicting damage to his rear wing, which ultimately forced him to retire before the lights even went out.
The moment was devastating for Hadjar, who was seen climbing out of his wrecked car in tears, clearly overwhelmed by the situation. It was an unfortunate and premature end to his maiden Grand Prix, and as he made his way back through the paddock, he encountered Anthony Hamilton, who offered a supportive embrace and some fatherly advice.
Anthony Hamilton’s Words of Encouragement
Reflecting on the encounter, Hadjar admitted that the words from Hamilton senior meant a lot to him during such a difficult moment.
“He said, ‘Just keep your head high,'” Hadjar revealed in his post-race interview.
“He understands what tough times feel like. I think he saw a rookie crashing before even starting his first race and knew how devastating it must be. He came to comfort me, and I really appreciated that gesture.”
Despite the words of encouragement, Hadjar struggled to hide his disappointment.
“It still feels incredibly hard, and I feel so sorry for the team,” he added.
Breaking Down the Incident
Hadjar attempted to analyze what went wrong, explaining how difficult it was to regain control of his car in the tricky conditions.
“I just lost the rear end,” he admitted. “With these cars, in these conditions, once they snap, it happens so fast, and there’s nothing you can do. I couldn’t regain the grip.
“I knew it was going to be challenging. Even on the laps to the grid, I could feel it would be tricky. But to end my race before it even started… it’s just embarrassing. I’m gutted for the team and for my loved ones watching at home.”
Anthony Hamilton, who was present at the race and watched as his son Lewis finished 10th, explained why he felt compelled to console Hadjar after witnessing the heartbreaking crash.
“As soon as I saw what happened to Isack, my heart sank. I just felt for him,” Hamilton told Canal+.
“It was just so tough to watch. I know how difficult the journey is for these young drivers. They start at eight years old, dreaming of making it to Formula 1, and the pressure only builds as they progress.
“I just wanted to give him a hug. At that moment, I wasn’t thinking as a racing fan—I was just acting as a father.”
Lando Norris Triumphs in Melbourne
While Hadjar endured a day to forget, McLaren’s Lando Norris produced a stunning drive to hold off reigning world champion Max Verstappen and secure a remarkable victory in mixed conditions. It was a memorable moment for the British driver, who controlled the race brilliantly despite the challenges posed by changing weather.
George Russell crossed the line in third for Mercedes, while rookie Kimi Antonelli finished fourth following a successful appeal from the Silver Arrows.
Although Hadjar’s F1 debut ended in disappointment, the young Racing Bulls driver will be looking to bounce back stronger in the next round of the championship. With the backing of his team and the supportive words of experienced figures like Anthony Hamilton, the Frenchman will have the motivation to prove himself in the races to come.
Fans blown away by conversation between Lewis Hamilton’s father and Isack Hadjar following crash at Australian Grand Prix
