How Hadjar lost a possible podium chance in Sepang

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Financial Intelligence • Markets • World News • Independent Analysis
Published: 2026-10-04 • Permanent link

Disaster struck during the Sepang Grand Prix as Isack Hadjar's chances of a podium were derailed by a late battery problem. The French driver had charged from eighth on the grid and was on course for a strong finish, but a faulty battery left him stranded on the side of the track. Hadjar's team, ART Grand Prix, was left reeling from the setback, and the driver's chances of a top-three finish were all but extinguished.

The news sent shockwaves through the motorsport community, with many fans and pundits expressing disappointment at the turn of events. The market reaction was also swift, with shares in ART Grand Prix plummeting in the wake of the news. The team's investors were left wondering what could have been, and the driver's chances of securing a full-time seat with the team for the upcoming season were suddenly in doubt.

The Sepang Grand Prix was not an isolated incident, however. Battery failures have been a growing concern in the world of motorsport, particularly in the lower-end classes where reliability is paramount. According to industry experts, the problem is largely due to the increasing use of advanced battery technology, which can be prone to faults if not properly maintained. The FIA has already begun to take steps to address the issue, but it remains to be seen whether these efforts will be enough to prevent similar incidents in the future.

As the dust settles on the Sepang Grand Prix, attention will soon turn to the upcoming season. ART Grand Prix will be forced to regroup and reassess its strategy, while Hadjar will be left to ponder what might have been. The French driver will be eager to put the disappointment of the Sepang Grand Prix behind him and focus on securing a strong start to the season. With a number of promising young drivers vying for a seat with the team, Hadjar will need to be at the top of his game if he is to have any hope of securing a full-time drive.