Juan Pablo Montoya has urged Red Bull to retain Liam Lawson for next week's Spanish Grand Prix, warning the team against rushing Isack Hadjar back into the cockpit while he recovers from injury.
Lawson was called up at short notice for the Dutch Grand Prix to replace Hadjar, who suffered a wrist injury during the summer break. Reserve driver Yuki Tsunoda stepped into Lawson's Racing Bulls seat alongside Arvid Lindblad as a result.
Despite minimal preparation and only one practice session, the New Zealander impressed by closely matching Red Bull team-mate Max Verstappen in qualifying. He converted that into a seventh-place finish, scoring six valuable points.
Montoya's Case: Stability Over Haste
Speaking on F1 TV's Weekend Warm-Up, Montoya argued that Red Bull would be wise to extend Lawson's stint through the Spanish Grand Prix. He believes the decision would give Hadjar extra recovery time while allowing Lawson to prepare properly for a circuit that is new to everyone.
The Colombian also praised Tsunoda's performance in the Netherlands, highlighting his race pace, overtaking aggression, and error-free execution. In Montoya's view, Tsunoda delivered exactly what a team wants from a driver called up under pressure.
The decision carries significant implications for Red Bull's internal dynamics. Lawson currently sits ninth in the standings with 49 points, while Hadjar is eighth with 68. Verstappen occupies sixth with 112 points, behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes on 242.
High Stakes at the New Madrid Circuit
The Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid marks the debut of the Madring circuit, presenting an unprecedented challenge for the entire grid. Track familiarity will be non-existent, making driver preparation and mental readiness paramount.
Red Bull's choice between retaining Lawson or reinstating Hadjar will signal the team's strategic direction for the second half of the season. A misstep could disrupt internal balance and compromise their constructors' championship ambitions.
With the title fight intensifying and every point crucial, Red Bull cannot afford to risk a recurrence of Hadjar's injury or a subpar performance from a driver who is not fully fit. The smart play, as Montoya suggests, may well be patience.
Read Also
Kimi Antonelli faces a tough Italian GP despite Alonso's podium prediction. Ferrari's engine gains pose a threat. Full analysis on Sportrik.
Laurent Mekies defends Red Bull's appeal that reinstated Isack Hadjar's Monaco podium. Read the analysis of its impact on F1.
Charles Leclerc ready to tow Lewis Hamilton in Italian GP qualifying. How will Ferrari and Mercedes strategize at Monza? Full analysis inside.
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!