French Formula One driver Isack Hadjar is set to return to Red Bull Racing at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix this week, following a successful recovery from a wrist injury that kept him out of three recent races. Hadjar's injury occurred during a boxing workout in the mid-season break, and he was subsequently sidelined with a splint on his arm. His place was taken by Liam Lawson, who drove for Red Bull Racing during the Dutch, Italian, and Spanish Grand Prix.
Red Bull Racing confirmed Hadjar's return in a statement on Tuesday, expressing their delight in welcoming him back to the team. The team also thanked Lawson for his professionalism, dedication, and hard work during his temporary stint with Red Bull Racing. Lawson adapted quickly to the team, achieving a best finish of sixth in Madrid this month. His performance was a strong statement after being dropped by Red Bull two races into the 2025 season.
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is scheduled to take place on a Saturday, which is unusual due to a public holiday. As a result, practice sessions will be held on Thursday, and qualifying will take place on Friday. This will be Hadjar's first race since his injury and his first time driving for Red Bull Racing since his recovery.
During his absence, Hadjar was reinstated to third place at the Monaco Grand Prix after appeals about penalties issued to Alpine's Pierre Gasly. This was his first podium finish at Red Bull Racing and matched his career-best result from last year's Dutch Grand Prix when he was driving for Racing Bulls.
Max Verstappen, Hadjar's teammate, has criticized this season's F1 cars, stating that they are "numb to your driver inputs" and offer limited ways for the best drivers to distinguish themselves. Verstappen's comments were made after Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, who returned to F1 in Lawson's usual seat at Racing Bulls, demonstrated their ability to be immediately competitive in unfamiliar cars.
Hadjar will be partnering Verstappen at Red Bull Racing for the remainder of the season. His return to the team is expected to bring a new dynamic to the team's performance, and fans will be eagerly watching his performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix will be a crucial test for Hadjar, as he looks to regain his form and contribute to Red Bull Racing's success. With his injury now behind him, Hadjar is ready to focus on delivering a strong performance and helping his team achieve their goals.
Key points
- Isack Hadjar to return to Red Bull Racing at Azerbaijan GP after recovering from wrist injury
- Liam Lawson to return to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls after temporary stint with Red Bull Racing
- Azerbaijan Grand Prix to take place on Saturday due to public holiday
