Isack Hadjar Misses Out on Bahrain Podium Due to Battery Issues

Red Bull driver Isack Hadjar expressed frustration after battery issues cost him a potential podium finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix, leaving him to cross the line in fifth place. Despite starting eighth following a five-place grid penalty, Hadjar fought his way up the field and was promoted to third position after a virtual safety car period caused by Alex Albon's gearbox stoppage and power unit troubles for George Russell.

However, battery problems during the restart severely hampered Hadjar's pace on the straights, leaving him unable to defend against the approaching Ferrari cars of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. Hamilton quickly closed a 15-second gap and passed Hadjar into Turn 1, with Leclerc executing a similar move a lap later to drop the Red Bull driver out of top-three contention.

Reflecting on the race, Hadjar noted that his car lacked battery energy and grip during the initial laps after the restart, despite having superior pace over Mercedes earlier in the weekend and starting on intermediate tyres. He emphasized that the team needs to resolve these mechanical issues and perform better ahead of the upcoming race in Singapore.