Isack Hadjar Sidelined for Italian Grand Prix as Wrist Injury Recovery Continues
MONZA, Italy – Red Bull junior standout Isack Hadjar will remain on the sidelines for this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix at Monza as he continues to struggle with a lingering wrist injury sustained during the Formula 1 summer break.
Sources confirmed to RacingNews365 that the 21-year-old’s recovery is taking longer than anticipated, necessitating another weekend away from the cockpit to ensure his long-term health is not compromised.
The decision to keep the young talent out of the car aligns with the cautious approach championed by team principal Laurent Mekies. Given the substantial driver depth within the Red Bull and Racing Bulls programs, the organization has opted to prioritize Hadjar’s full rehabilitation over rushing him back into competition.
A Successful Temporary Shuffle
Hadjar first missed the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort following a training incident that resulted in a wrist injury, an event that triggered a “musical chairs” style shake-up across the Red Bull-affiliated teams.
Liam Lawson stepped into the RB22 to deputize for the injured driver, delivering a composed performance that saw him secure a seventh-place finish and six vital championship points—a result widely regarded as the ceiling of what was possible in the Dutch capital.
In a corresponding move, Yuki Tsunoda stepped into the Racing Bulls seat vacated by Lawson. The Japanese driver narrowly missed out on a points finish, taking 11th place after a strong battle with Arvid Lindblad.
Stability at the Temple of Speed
Although Hadjar was visible in the Zandvoort paddock throughout the Dutch Grand Prix weekend, sporting a protective sleeve on his forearm, it has become clear that the rapid turnaround for the “Temple of Speed” at Monza is unrealistic.
With both Lawson and Tsunoda proving their readiness and adaptability during the previous round, Red Bull has elected to maintain the status quo for the Italian Grand Prix. By keeping the current driver pairings, the team hopes to build on the momentum generated in the Netherlands while allowing the injured Isack Hadjar the necessary time to return to full fitness without the pressure of an immediate comeback.
The team remains optimistic that the extra week of rest will be pivotal in getting the prospect back behind the wheel as soon as he is medically cleared.
