Red Bull Racing will return from the Formula 1 summer break with a different line-up, following an injury sustained by Isack Hadjar.
De Telegraaf has reported that Hadjar will be unable to compete at the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix, with Liam Lawson expected to step up from Racing Bulls back into Red Bull for the first time since his demotion early last season.
Yuki Tsunoda is thought to be stepping into the Kiwi’s Racing Bulls alongside Arvid Lindblad. This will mark the Japanese driver’s return to F1 following his demotion to a reserve driver role at the end of last season.
The injury comes at a frustrating time for him and Red Bull. Hadjar has consistently impressed many in his first season alongside four-time World Champion Max Verstappen, breaking the ‘curse’ of Red Bull’s second seat, which haunted drivers prior to him.
Alongside this, the 21-year-old continues to establish himself as a strong force in the midfield, securing consistent points finishes, to currently sit 41 behind his World Champion teammate.
Importantly, Hadjar’s absence presents an unexpected challenge for Red Bull as the team looks to build momentum heading into the second half of the season.The tea has struggled to find consistent form this season under the new regulations. But the addition of Lawson could provide stability for the team, with the Kiwi driver already accustomed to the team.
Crucially for the 24-year-old, this situation could be a breakthrough in his contract negotiations. While Red Bull is reportedly looking to F2’s Nikola Tsolov for a potential promotion, Lawson appears to be at risk of losing his F1 seat. Thus, a solid performance on his return to the top team could prove pivotal for the Kiwi.
It is unclear at this stage whether Hadjar will miss any other rounds across the season.
Confirmation from Red Bull is expected today.
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