Kiwi F1 driver Liam Lawson's stint with Red Bull has come to an end, meaning he will return to the Racing Bulls garage for this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
The 24-year-old joined the senior team in August as a super-sub for French-Algerian driver Isack Hadjar, who was recovering from a wrist injury he sustained over the summer break.
Lawson had a strong three-race stint with Red Bull, scoring 14 points in three races. It was a big step up from his previous spell with the team last season, when he was demoted after just two races.
In a statement, Red Bull confirmed Hadjar would be back on the grid for this weekend's race through the streets of Baku.
“The team would like to sincerely thank Liam for his professionalism, dedication and hard work over the past three races," a statement from the team read.
“Stepping in under challenging circumstances, he delivered some impressive performances and made a valuable contribution to the team.
“We wish him all the best as he returns to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.”
Back with the junior team, Lawson will be hoping to continue his good run of form from before his time with Red Bull.
"It feels great to be back in my car alongside the team as we head to Baku," Lawson said.
"It has been a busy few weeks with the switch to Red Bull Racing, and I'm looking foward to getting back into the rhythm with the team and focusing on the weekend ahead."
His stint with Red Bull was part of a solid season, rebuilding after a chaotic 2025. Lawson currently sits ninth in the drivers' championship standings, regularly leading the midfield pack and finishing races with points.
Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies praised the Kiwi following his sixth-place finish at the Spanish Grand Prix.
“I think he's done a very good job," he said. "I think we all know how difficult it is to jump to a different team, to a different car, and I think that he has done that to the best of what could have been our expectations.
“He has taken some very important points today with the P6. He did the same in Zandvoort and in Monza he would have done something similar without the contact with Nico [Hulkenberg] and the front wing damage.
“So, I think he did a very good job, again very different pictures compared to the first two races of 2025 when he was in the team so we are thankful and happy with that.”
On-track action for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix starts tomorrow, with the first practice session at 10.30pm (NZT). Green flag and lights out for the race will be at 11pm on Saturday.
The morning's headlines in 90 seconds, including the Taxpayers Union fires back at Nicky Hager, and Liam Lawson's job change. (Source: Breakfast)
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