Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has urged Red Bull to keep New Zealander Liam Lawson in the lead car for the opening Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid, warning the team against hastily reinstating Isack Hadjar after his wrist injury.
Montoya stresses the need for momentum
During an interview on F1 TV’s Weekend Warm‑Up, Montoya highlighted Lawson’s strong showing in the Dutch Grand Prix, where he stepped in with just one practice session, matching teammate Max Verstappen in qualifying and finishing seventh to score six points.
Potential impact on the standings
Lawson currently sits ninth in the drivers’ standings with 49 points, while Hadjar lags eightth with 68 points. Max Verstappen remains sixth with 112 points, and Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli leads the championship with 242. The Madrid race, scheduled 11‑13 September, will mark the first visit to the new Madrig‑Circuit.
Strategic decision ahead of Madrid
Montoya’s assessment stresses that a calm, well‑prepared Lawson could maintain Red Bull’s competitive edge, especially after the team’s challenge from Yuki Tsunoda’s successful emergency substitution.
In an era where every driver’s contribution can swing season standings, Red Bull’s choice next week will signal how seriously the team values continuity over hurried changes.
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