Red Bull Confirms Lawson to Replace Injured Hadjar at Dutch GP

Red Bull has confirmed Isack Hadjar will miss this weekend's Dutch Grand Prix after sustaining a wrist injury during the summer shutdown, handing Liam Lawson a surprise return to the senior team. The change also triggers a swap at Racing Bulls, where reserve driver Yuki Tsunoda will replace Lawson alongside Arvid Lindblad.

Why it matters:

The sudden reshuffle gives Lawson an unexpected second chance at Red Bull just months after his first stint ended after only two races at the start of 2025. Hadjar's absence is particularly painful at Zandvoort, where he secured his only F1 podium to date with third place in 2025. Meanwhile, Tsunoda's recall ends his exile from the grid since losing his Red Bull seat following a difficult 2025 campaign.

The details:

• Red Bull confirmed on Wednesday that Hadjar's injury prevents him from racing the RB22, welcoming Lawson back on short notice.
• Lawson arrives in stronger form than his previous Red Bull spell. The 24-year-old sits ninth in the 2026 championship after 11 rounds, scoring points in all but three races with Racing Bulls.
• Tsunoda will race for Racing Bulls this weekend, partnering rookie Arvid Lindblad.

What's next:

Lawson now faces immediate pressure to perform alongside Max Verstappen at a track that has historically suited Red Bull. A strong weekend could put him in contention to retain the seat depending on Hadjar's recovery timeline. For Tsunoda, this unexpected return offers a crucial opportunity to remind the paddock of his talents amid ongoing speculation about his future in Formula 1.