Red Bull faces late Dutch GP shake-up as Hadjar injury opens door for Lawson

Red Bull is facing a dramatic late driver reshuffle ahead of this weekend's Dutch Grand Prix, with Isack Hadjar reportedly set to miss the Zandvoort race due to a wrist injury sustained in training. The Frenchman's potential absence could open the door for Liam Lawson to make an unexpected return to the senior team to partner Max Verstappen.

Why it matters:

Hadjar's expected absence would disrupt the Red Bull lineup he has impressed with during his breakthrough 2026 campaign alongside Verstappen. The situation also thrusts Lawson back into the spotlight, offering the New Zealander a second chance with the senior squad just months after being dropped following the opening two races and sent back to Racing Bulls.

The details:

• Dutch outlet De Telegraaf reports Hadjar suffered the injury during a gym session and is unlikely to be cleared to compete.
• Lawson, who partnered Verstappen in early 2025 before being demoted after two races, is tipped to step up from Racing Bulls.
• The situation carries a striking sense of déjà vu: Lawson made his F1 debut at Zandvoort in 2023 replacing Daniel Ricciardo after the Australian broke his wrist in practice.
• Should Lawson move up, reserve driver Yuki Tsunoda is expected to fill the Racing Bulls seat.
• Zandvoort holds significance for Hadjar, who claimed a surprise podium at the circuit last season.

What's next:

Red Bull has yet to officially confirm any changes, but faces a race against time to finalize its lineup before the weekend. A late swap would place Lawson back alongside Verstappen at the very track where his F1 career began under similar circumstances three years ago, adding another twist to Red Bull's driver saga.