Isack Hadjar undergoing final Red Bull evaluation before comeback decision

Isack Hadjar is undergoing a final Red Bull evaluation in the simulator today, with a decision on his return expected later this Monday, September 21. The Frenchman has missed three races with a wrist injury sustained during the summer break, leaving Liam Lawson to deputise alongside Max Verstappen.

Why it matters:

Red Bull's driver lineup for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix hangs in the balance. Hadjar's return would restore the team's preferred pairing, while a delayed comeback keeps Lawson in the seat and triggers a reshuffle across both Red Bull teams.

The details:

• Hadjar sustained the wrist injury during the summer break and has sat out the last three grands prix.
• Team principal Laurent Mekies has been clear that Hadjar will return once he is 100% fit.
• Sources close to the matter indicate Hadjar feels his hand has improved and is less painful.
• The final call will only be made after the simulator session concludes.
• If cleared, Hadjar returns to the RB22 in Baku; otherwise, Lawson starts a fourth consecutive race.

Between the lines:

A Hadjar return would send Lawson back to Racing Bulls alongside Arvid Lindblad, ending Yuki Tsunoda's three-race spell with the team. Tsunoda, who scored a point at Monza, would resume his duties as third and reserve driver.

What's next:

The decision is expected later today. Red Bull will then confirm its lineup for this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with the simulator session likely to be the final test of Hadjar's fitness.