Isack Hadjar wrist left 'numb' after podium heroics

Isack Hadjar has admitted his injured wrist was "numb" after he stormed to third place in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, his first round back in action after fracturing it during the F1 summer break.

The Red Bull driver missed the weekends in Zandvoort, Monza and Madrid, with Liam Lawson deputising for him in the second RB22.

However, having finally been awarded his podium finish from the Monaco Grand Prix during his six-week recovery period, he added to that haul at the Baku City Circuit, his first race since the Hungarian Grand Prix in July.

"Yeah, I'm happy. It's been a very long six weeks; it's been like six weeks since I enjoyed myself," the Frenchman said after the 51-lap race.

"I think now was the right time to to come back. I felt strong, and this weekend I really took it step by step.

"It's a track you can end up in the wall really quickly — I didn't need that to gain confidence.

"So it was a very slow build-up, but it brought me here [to a podium finish]. So I'm very very happy for an actual first proper podium on pure pace. So I'm very, very delighted."

When asked how his left wrist was holding up after the rigours of a weekend in an F1 car, Hadjar replied: "I'm completely satisfied; even though it's a bit numb, I'm happy.

"I'm really looking forward to getting back to [more] racing. It's going to be a very packed schedule. So, I can't wait to be in Sepang"