Sawt Falasteen - Frenchman Hadjar coy on Red Bull switch

The Racing Bulls rookie, who has enjoyed an impressive debut season, quashed suggestions he might make the switch before the end of this year as replacement for Yuki Tsunoda.

"It's so unlikely," he told reporters.

"That would mean I have just two more races with the team and it's just not going to happen.

"I'm also very happy, so very happy with the team that I am in right now. For them, I also need to bring P6 home," the 21-year-old added.

Hadjar has been linked with a switch to Red Bull for some months since his early season form established him as one of the best newcomers to F1.

He has responded by saying little other than that he has no fears about teaming up with four-time champion Max Verstappen.

It is widely thought Red Bull will decide on their line-up after this weekend's Mexican Grand Prix.

"Actually, I'd like to know at the end of the year, because it's more annoying than anything, all the noise.

"So, five races to keep pushing,

"Twelve months ago, it was all a bit unsure for me. I had an idea. But this year it's true that I am in a better position because I know I am in Formula One next year.

"Last year, I didn't know what I was doing so, yeah, now, I’m a lot less panicked," he added.

Japanese driver Tsunoda said he felt confident he can keep his seat – having started the season alongside Hadjar at Racing Bulls before he was promoted to replace Liam Lawson after two races.

"I will keep pushing and try to score points and help Max win the drivers' title," the 25-year-old said.

"I'm confident and I am doing my best.

"In the end, it's up to them.”

G.AbuHamad--SF-PST