Wrist injury threatens Hadjar's Dutch GP start with Lawson on standby for Red Bull

Isack Hadjar faces a race against time to be fit for the Formula 1 Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort after injuring his wrist during a gym session ahead of the race weekend. Red Bull has yet to make a formal decision on his participation but, according to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, a replacement plan is already in place.

Should Hadjar be unable to race, Liam Lawson will step up to the main Red Bull team as Max Verstappen’s team-mate — his first appearance alongside the four-time world champion since last year’s Chinese Grand Prix, before Lawson was demoted ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix. Reserve driver Yuki Tsunoda would then slot into Lawson’s seat at sister team Racing Bulls, partnering Arvid Lindblad.

Red Bull’s primary concern is Hadjar’s longer-term recovery. The team is understood to be focused on ensuring the 21-year-old is fit enough to return for the following race weekend at Monza, rather than risking further damage by rushing him back at Zandvoort.

For Lawson, a stand-in appearance at Zandvoort would represent a significant reward for a strong 2026 campaign. The New Zealander sits ninth in the drivers’ championship — best of the rest behind Formula 1’s four leading teams — and has scored points at all but three race weekends this season.

The race carries added significance for Verstappen, as Zandvoort hosts what is set to be the final Dutch Grand Prix on the Formula 1 calendar. Hadjar had marked the occasion earlier this week by unveiling a special Delft Blue helmet design that paid tribute to his maiden F1 podium at the same circuit last year — a result that also saw him accidentally break his trophy into two pieces.

Tsunoda’s potential return would end a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The Japanese driver was left without a race seat at the end of last season and has been serving as reserve driver for both Red Bull-affiliated teams in 2026. Red Bull is, however, expected to favour promoting the more experienced Lawson to the senior car given his familiarity with the 2026 machinery. Tsunoda has separately been linked with an IndyCar move to Meyer Shank Racing for 2027.