Isack Hadjar to lead Red Bull’s Suzuka Pirelli tyre test programme

Hadjar to run solo for Red Bull at Suzuka

Isack Hadjar is set to take centre stage for Red Bull in this week’s Pirelli tyre test at Suzuka, following the Japanese Grand Prix. Both Red Bull and sister outfit Racing Bulls will participate across Tuesday and Wednesday, but it is Hadjar who will exclusively handle driving duties for the Milton Keynes-based team.

Verstappen absent, Tsunoda not involved

As is often the case with Pirelli tyre tests, Max Verstappen will not take part. The reigning Red Bull driver returned home immediately after the Grand Prix and will not be involved in the post-race running.

Racing Bulls expected to field race line-up

Racing Bulls is expected to run its current driver pairing of Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad across the two days.

Lindblad arrives at the test following an eye-catching qualifying performance at Suzuka, where he knocked Verstappen out. The British rookie secured eighth on the grid, making him the highest-placed Red Bull-powered driver in qualifying. However, his race proved more challenging, as he slipped back to finish 14th.

Lawson, by contrast, mounted a recovery drive on Sunday, climbing from 14th on the grid to finish ninth.

For Hadjar, the tyre test represents a focused opportunity to build momentum after his own mixed weekend. Although he impressed in qualifying, he ultimately fell to 12th in the race and missed out on points. This week’s running at Suzuka now offers him uninterrupted time in the car as Red Bull and Racing Bulls continue their collaboration with Pirelli.