Red Bull are hopeful Isack Hadjar will return at the next round in Baku. Image: XPB Images
The Frenchman is missing a third consecutive grand prix in Madrid this weekend, with Liam Lawson again stepping into the Red Bull alongside Max Verstappen.
Hadjar has been absent since injuring his wrist while training ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, with the team refusing to bring the 21-year-old back until he feels completely comfortable behind the wheel.
Team principal Laurent Mekies said there had been little debate over whether Hadjar should compete at the new Madring circuit once it became clear he was still short of full fitness.
“It was an easy one. He didn’t feel that he was 100 percent and that’s the only criteria we used,” Mekies told Sky Sport.
“Are you 100 percent, and so it was an easy one for here.
“We always said we would prioritise him coming back at 100 percent.”
Hadjar travelled to Madrid despite being unable to race, remaining with the team as his rehabilitation continues.
The nature of the new Spanish Grand Prix venue also strengthened Red Bull’s resolve not to take an unnecessary risk, with the tight and unfamiliar Madring layout providing a demanding environment for any potential comeback.
“There is no point in throwing him into a track like today. Not feeling good and potentially delaying his full recovery,” Mekies said.
“So that’s the assessments that we have done.”
Attention has now shifted towards the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in two weeks, giving Hadjar additional time before Red Bull must decide whether he is ready to reclaim the seat.
Mekies offered an encouraging assessment of his progress and stressed there had been no setback in the recovery process.
“We have a bit more time before Baku,” he said.
“And honestly there is nothing wrong with his recovery. The recovery is going as planned.
“Some things take time, and we will take the time to evaluate before Baku and to put him on the sim.”
Simulator running is therefore set to play an important role in determining whether Hadjar is capable of returning at the Baku City Circuit.
The Azerbaijan weekend would also begin a demanding triple-header continuing through Malaysia and Singapore, increasing the importance of ensuring Hadjar is fully recovered before he resumes racing.