Red Bull has chosen Liam Lawson to fill in for Isack Hadjar at the Dutch Grand Prix, sidelining Yuki Tsunoda from the main Red Bull lineup despite Tsunoda initially set to race for Racing Bulls.

Lawson’s short-term return is framed as a reward for his strong 2026 form, with potential implications for his long-term future within Red Bull if he capitalizes on the chance.

Lawson sits ninth in the drivers’ standings with 43 points after 11 rounds, boasting eight points finishes and two sixth-place results.

Lawson emphasizes a pressure-free mindset, aiming to maintain his recent form and maximize the opportunity at Zandvoort.

Red Bull’s ongoing upgrades, including the VCARB 03 package, are contributing to 2026 performance with improvements translating on track.

The team notes they have been around the fourth-fastest this season and that some developments will only bear fruit next year.

Past-season lessons are being applied to sustain 2026 consistency and pursue long-term Formula 1 goals.

A shift in Lawson’s approach—making the car feel like his own rather than chasing Verstappen’s setup—has been crucial to unlocking performance this weekend.

Verstappen acknowledged grip and balance issues and said the team would assess overnight to close the gap for the Sprint and main Qualifying.

Permane remains confident in his drivers and prioritizes the Constructors’ Championship, describing the current situation as a welcome problem.

Tsunoda notes the RB22 feels more comfortable than the RB21, though direct comparisons are complicated by aero and driver differences.

Lawson faces a sprint weekend with only one practice session to adapt to the 2026 car and new setup demands, while Tsunoda’s teammate Lindblad prepares to help him get up to speed.