Hadjar or Lawson alongside Verstappen: Red Bull has made its decision

Hadjar sustained a wrist fracture during a practice session in the lead-up to the Dutch Grand Prix. As a result, it was impossible for the second-year Formula 1 driver to compete at Zandvoort. The Frenchman had hoped his absence would be short-lived, with his sights set on a comeback at Monza.

After intensive checks by Red Bull Racing’s medical team, the decision was made this Wednesday: Hadjar is currently not fit enough to race alongside Max Verstappen at the Temple of Speed. The youngster will therefore remain on the sidelines, meaning Liam Lawson will contest a second Grand Prix for Red Bull. He did so at Zandvoort as well, and to good effect given the very limited preparation time.

Yuki Tsunoda is in luck, too. The Japanese driver returned in the Netherlands, stepping in for Lawson at Racing Bulls. With Lawson once again at the senior team, that opens up a spot at Racing Bulls for the seasoned driver. Tsunoda will partner Arvid Lindblad in Italy.

It is unclear when Hadjar will be available again. After the race at Monza, the Spanish Grand Prix at the Madring in Madrid follows just a week later. That track features a substantial banked corner, which can be a major challenge for a driver nursing a wrist injury.