Red Bull thanks Liam Lawson as Hadjar return confirmed for Azerbaijan GP

Red Bull has thanked Liam Lawson after confirming the Spanish Grand Prix was his final stand-in appearance. Isack Hadjar has been declared fit to return at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, sending Lawson back to Racing Bulls.

Why it matters:

The decision settles Red Bull's driver reshuffle for Baku and gives Lawson a clear signal: after a difficult first Red Bull spell in 2025, he delivered the performances the team wants from its second seat.

The details:

• Hadjar suffered a wrist injury during the F1 2026 summer break, missing the Dutch, Italian and Spanish GPs.
• Lawson stepped up from Racing Bulls, finishing P7 at Zandvoort and P6 in Madrid. His Italian GP was compromised by an engine penalty and damage.
• Red Bull praised his 'professionalism, dedication and hard work', adding he made 'a valuable contribution'.
• Racing Bulls thanked Yuki Tsunoda, who filled Lawson's seat and now drops back to reserve duties.

Between the lines:

Lawson admitted the hardest part was preparing for two different cars while not knowing which team he would drive. By the end of the Spanish GP weekend, he felt comfortable in the RB22. Red Bull made its decision on Tuesday, a day earlier than he anticipated.

What's next:

Lawson now focuses solely on the VCARB 03 in Baku. Hadjar returns alongside Max Verstappen, while Tsunoda reverts to reserve duty.