Isack Hadjar will return to Red Bull Racing for this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix at Baku after recovering from a wrist injury, with Liam Lawson moving back to the Racing Bulls Formula 1 team.
Hadjar sustained the wrist injury during training over the summer break and, following medical advice, was instructed to avoid driving to manage his recovery. Lawson therefore deputised for the Frenchman at Red Bull, starting with the Dutch Grand Prix, while Yuki Tsunoda stepped up from his reserve role to fill Lawson's seat at Racing Bulls.
This arrangement lasted for three races as Hadjar prioritised his recovery. Lawson thus stayed in the Red Bull seat for both the Italian and Spanish grands prix, with Tsunoda continuing to fill the Racing Bulls void. Lawson scored 14 points in his three outings for Red Bull, with Monza the only scoreless round as he took a series of power unit penalties and was forced to pit later after contact with Nico Hulkenberg broke part of his front wing.
"The team would like to thank Liam for his professionalism, dedication, and hard work over the past three races," read a statement from Red Bull. "Stepping in under challenging circumstances, he delivered some impressive performances and made a valuable contribution to the team."
Hadjar thus makes his first appearance at the wheel of an F1 car since July's Hungarian Grand Prix, although he managed to increase his seasonal points tally in that time when his Monaco Grand Prix third place was reinstated. McLaren and Red Bull had successfully appealed against the post-race rescinding of Gasly's two five-second penalties for speeding in the pitlane, moving Hadjar back up to the podium positions.
The Frenchman also sought advice from MotoGP champion Marc Marquez, who suffered an arm fracture in 2020 which worsened as he tried to return to competition prematurely, requiring multiple surgeries in the years since. Marquez revealed that he told Hadjar: "I learned in the past that missing one race will not change your life. Worsening your injury because you ride too early can change your life."
Hadjar's return provides a morale boost for Red Bull as they battle fiercely in the constructors' championship. With the season entering a crucial phase, the presence of a driver who demonstrated speed and consistency before his injury is a vital asset. Lawson, meanwhile, will rejoin Racing Bulls alongside Tsunoda, adding a new dynamic to both teams.
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix at the Baku City Circuit will serve as an immediate test for Hadjar after his long absence. The demanding street circuit requires precision and physical strength, making it a benchmark for his wrist recovery. Red Bull will hope Hadjar can be competitive straight away without compromising his long-term health.
Read Also
Red Bull confirms Isack Hadjar returns for F1 Azerbaijan GP after wrist injury. Liam Lawson back to Racing Bulls, Yuki Tsunoda sidelined.
Isack Hadjar returns to Red Bull for the Azerbaijan GP after recovering from a wrist injury. Liam Lawson moves back to Racing Bulls. Read the full analysis.
Isack Hadjar returns to Red Bull for F1 Azerbaijan in Baku after recovering from a wrist injury. Liam Lawson returns to Racing Bulls, Yuki Tsunoda reverts to his original role.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!