Red Bull boss casts doubt over Isack Hadjar F1 return

Isack Hadjar is unlikely to race in next week's Spanish Grand Prix as he continues recovering from a wrist injury, Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies says. The Frenchman has already missed Zandvoort and Monza, with Liam Lawson deputizing for Max Verstappen.

Why it matters:

Hadjar's absence reshuffles Red Bull's driver lineup and gives Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda crucial track time. For the 21-year-old, a strong rookie season is on hold, and the team is refusing to take risks.

The Details:

• Hadjar suffered a hairline fracture during the summer break and was not cleared for the Dutch GP as a precaution.
• He also missed the Italian GP. Lawson again stepped up to Red Bull, while Tsunoda filled Lawson's seat at Racing Bulls.
• Mekies told Canal+ that Hadjar is 'fine' but unhappy. 'His recovery is the absolute priority,' he said. 'There is no reason to take any risks.'
• The Spanish GP runs 11-13 September, leaving little time. 'Madrid is just a few days away, so it's difficult,' Mekies admitted.
• Hadjar did get a boost on Friday: the FIA Court of Appeal restored him to third in Monaco, his first Red Bull podium and second in F1.

What's next:

Mekies stressed Hadjar will only return when 100% fit, with no risk to his career. A Madrid start looks unlikely, so Lawson and Tsunoda will keep their opportunities.