We followed Isack Hadjar’s first podium on F1 Kids
This page is translated from the original post "On a suivi le premier podium d’Isack Hadjar sur F1 Kids" in French.
- 31/08/2025 18:01
Canal+ inaugurated the new F1 Kids format during the Dutch Grand Prix. We tried the experience as a family.
This Sunday, F1 opened itself to a new audience with the first broadcast of F1 Kids on the Canal+ Kids channel. Designed for 8-12 year olds, this alternative version of the Grand Prix featured colorful production, simplified graphics, and especially animated avatars of the drivers, even capable of showing off some dance moves. We never suspected Max Verstappen or Charles Leclerc could move like that!
The gamble was risky, but the race provided an ideal scenario with a series of twists and turns, including Isack Hadjar’s first podium finish, placing third in his Racing Bulls. This was enough to capture the attention of younger viewers and to spark excitement in those discovering a slightly different F1 broadcast.
To assess the experience, we had two prestigious consultants: Anwen, 12 years old, and Didier, 9 years old. Both immersed in the world of motorsport from an early age, they are not fans of F1. Yet, they experienced the race with enthusiasm, eagerly waiting for the appearances of the dancing avatars and joining in on the “Did you know?” segments. The educational overlays, explaining concepts like flags or the role of DRS, particularly delighted them at the start. However, the flow of information in English eventually lost their attention towards the end of the event. An entirely French version is necessary if Canal aims to hit the target.
On the animation side, the trio of presenters, led by Arnaud Rakoto, a notable finalist of “Au Micro, Season 1,” displayed great energy, although the overall presentation still needs a little fine-tuning. The light-hearted tone, unpretentiousness, and refreshing use of informal address were appreciated. Special mention goes to young French driver Théophile Naël, who provided insightful analyses that were clear for children yet relevant for adults. A good driver with a sharp mind! Young Julia Montlaur, 12 years old, who logically took a backseat to her older peers, compensated with refreshing sincerity and a passion already well-established. We left wanting to learn more about these two gems of French motorsport.
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For parents, the main frustration remains the lack of technical information: hardly anything on tire strategies or penalties, forcing them to follow the race simultaneously on the Live Text from our friends at AUTOhebdo to fill in the gaps. An easy compromise for a complete family experience.
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In the end, the trial is largely successful. F1 Kids manages to present a fun and accessible face to the discipline while remaining true to the intensity of the race. And with a French driver on the podium, the experience turned into a true family celebration. The next appointment is already set for a week from now in Monza.
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