LIAM LAWSON has been handed a shock Red Bull return at this weekend’s Dutch Grand Prix — 16 months after he was axed by the former world champions.

New Zealander Lawson, dropped by Red Bull after just two races last year, will line up alongside Max Verstappen at the four-time world champion’s home event following a wrist injury sustained by Isack Hadjar during the summer break.

Hadjar’s demise sees Lawson promoted back from Racing Bulls in a remarkable turnaround following Red Bull’s decision to drop him just over a year ago.

A statement from Red Bull read: “Isack Hadjar has sustained a wrist injury during summer shutdown that will prevent him from racing at the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix.

“We will be welcoming back Liam Lawson who will replace him in RB22 this weekend. The team wishes Isack a speedy recovery and thanks Liam for stepping in on short notice.”

Following his demotion from Red Bull last year, Lawson bounced back well with Racing Bulls, scoring 43 points so far this season.

Hadjar’s demise also opens the door for Yuki Tsunoda to return to the grid after he lost his seat as Verstappen’s team-mate at the end of last season. The Japanese driver will partner Arvid Lindblad at Racing Bulls, as a replacement for Lawson, in Zandvoort.

Hadjar has scored 68 points in his debut Red Bull year, but it is unclear at this stage if he will be fit to contest the Italian Grand Prix at Monza on September 6.

Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli heads into the second half of the season with a 50-point lead over Lewis Hamilton in the championship standings. Antonelli’s team-mate George Russell is nine points further back.