When Isack Hadjar lines up on the Formula 1 grid for Racing Bulls, he’s not just living out his own dreams, he’s carrying with him the story of a friendship with Sami Meguetounif that started long before the glamour of the paddock.
In a sport often defined by fierce rivalries, Hadjar’s relationship with Meguetounif stands out for its depth, longevity, and cultural connection.
Speaking to Motorsport.com, Hadjar opened up about how the bond with Meguetounif, who is now racing in Formula 2, was formed nearly a decade ago.
“It’s now ten years since we became friends,” Hadjar said. “I met him and his dad in Le Mans and he was like: ‘Are you Algerian?’ I said: ‘I’m French but I have Algerian roots.’ And he said: ‘Yeah, I’m Algerian!’ That was really funny. I think it’s a really nice story that we have together.”
It was a simple exchange — rooted in shared heritage — that laid the foundation for a friendship that endured through the intense world of junior motorsport.
The pair battled fiercely in the French karting championships, each pushing the other to greater heights. Yet despite the inevitable on-track rivalries, their respect and camaraderie only grew stronger.
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“He’s a good friend of mine – probably my best friend in motorsport,” Hadjar revealed. “We had a lot of battles together in the national championships. But always enjoyable ones.”
Hadjar Meguetounif friendship goes beyond racing
While Hadjar’s ascent through Formula 3, Formula 2, and now into Formula 1 with Red Bull’s junior team has been rapid, he believes Meguetounif’s journey has been more complicated — but no less promising.
“He is very fast,” Hadjar said. “He was a bit less fortunate than me in his career path. I would say – and he knows – I had better career choices. And that’s really key – and timing is key as well. But he has all the qualities to be here.”
Hadjar’s words carry the certainty of someone who knows what it takes to break into the top level of motorsport.
His own path has not been without setbacks — from financial limitations in karting to heartbreaks in junior categories — but he acknowledges how crucial timing, opportunity, and support have been in reaching Formula 1.
Now that Hadjar has made it, he’s confident it won’t be long before his closest rival and friend joins him on the biggest stage.
“I’m waiting for him to get to F1,” Hadjar said with a smile. “We’ll meet again, for sure.”
It’s a refreshing glimpse into the personal side of motorsport, where beyond the pressure of lap times and contract negotiations, lifelong friendships — built on respect, roots, and a shared dream — still flourish.
