Isack Hadjar’s return to Formula 1 could reportedly take longer than initially anticipated, raising further questions over when the Red Bull driver will be fit enough to get back behind the wheel.
The French-Algerian driver has been sidelined with a wrist injury, forcing Red Bull to make changes to its driver lineup. Liam Lawson was brought back into the senior Red Bull team on a temporary basis, while Yuki Tsunoda has stepped in at Racing Bulls during Hadjar’s absence.
Tsunoda has now enjoyed three consecutive races back in an F1 seat, and his return has provided some positive moments despite the difficult circumstances. The Japanese driver has had limited preparation time to adapt to the heavily revised 2026 regulations and the new-generation cars, yet he managed to deliver a points-scoring performance at the Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
His result at Monza was particularly important because it moved him ahead of Lance Stroll and both Cadillac drivers in the championship standings. Although Tsunoda has not had an extended period to establish himself in the 2026 car, his performances have given Racing Bulls a dependable option while Hadjar continues his recovery.
However, there is now uncertainty over whether Tsunoda’s temporary assignment will come to an end as soon as previously expected.
According to Beatrice Frangione of the Italian edition of Motorsport.com, concerns have emerged within the paddock that Hadjar’s recovery from his wrist injury could take “much longer than expected.” The report has consequently cast doubt over whether the 21-year-old will be ready to return for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku.
Hadjar’s absence is significant for both the driver and the team. After making an impressive start to his Formula 1 career, the youngster has established himself as an important part of Red Bull’s plans. His performances have also increased expectations surrounding his future within the Red Bull system.
With his recovery timeline now uncertain, Racing Bulls could be forced to continue relying on Tsunoda for another race or potentially longer, depending on Hadjar’s medical progress.
The situation could also have implications for the team’s future planning. Racing Bulls and Red Bull have yet to officially finalise their complete driver arrangements for the 2027 season, meaning every race and every performance could carry additional significance as the teams evaluate their options.
For Tsunoda, an extended run in the car would provide another opportunity to demonstrate his value. The Japanese driver will be hoping to build on his Monza points finish and prove that he can consistently deliver despite the unusual circumstances surrounding his return.
For Hadjar, however, the priority remains recovering fully rather than rushing back before he is ready. His eventual return will depend on how quickly his wrist heals and whether medical checks confirm that he is fit to withstand the demands of an F1 weekend.
Until Red Bull and Racing Bulls provide an official update, Tsunoda’s continued presence remains possible, while Hadjar’s timetable for returning to competition remains uncertain.
The coming races should therefore provide a clearer picture of when Hadjar can finally resume his 2026 campaign and whether his absence will ultimately extend significantly beyond the team’s original expectations.
