Lawson Set for Shock Red Bull Return? Hadjar Injured Ahead of Zandvoort

A surprise twist is brewing in the Formula 1 paddock ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix. Liam Lawson is reportedly in line to make a shock return to Red Bull Racing, following an injury to Isack Hadjar.

Dutch publication De Telegraaf reports that Hadjar sustained the injury during a gym session in the buildup to Zandvoort. The Frenchman is now unlikely to compete this weekend, although an official decision has yet to be made.

If Hadjar is ruled out, Lawson is the prime candidate to step up from Racing Bulls. It would mark an unexpected comeback for the New Zealander, just 18 months after his brief stint alongside Max Verstappen came to an abrupt end. Lawson started 2025 with Red Bull but was dropped after just two races and sent back to the sister team.

Read AlsoBriatore: Gasly Among Top-6 F1, Now Priority Is Better Car

The same report also suggests Yuki Tsunoda would return to Racing Bulls to fill the void left by Lawson. Tsunoda, currently a reserve driver for Red Bull, would be available for an immediate return.

For Hadjar, this injury comes at a cruel time. His debut season with Red Bull has been impressive, and he was expected to stay alongside Verstappen through 2027. Zandvoort holds fond memories for him, having secured a surprise podium there last year on his first appearance at the circuit.

Meanwhile, Lawson is enjoying a strong 2026 campaign with Racing Bulls, sitting ninth in the drivers' championship entering the Dutch GP. A Red Bull recall would mark another unexpected chapter in his F1 career, especially after the disappointment of his short-lived promotion last year.

Zandvoort has a poetic history with Lawson. It was here in 2023 that he made his grand prix debut, stepping in for an injured Daniel Ricciardo at AlphaTauri. He impressed over five races, which ultimately helped him secure a permanent seat.

Three years later, another wrist injury could hand Lawson another sudden opportunity, this time back alongside Verstappen at Red Bull. All eyes are now on the team's official confirmation.