Liam Lawson backs Isack Hadjar for Red Bull step: 'He's ready'

Liam Lawson has stated Isack Hadjar is “ready” for a promotion to the Red Bull F1 team. Hadjar has enjoyed a successful rookie campaign this year, which peaked last month at the Dutch Grand Prix where he secured his first career podium. The Frenchman has been linked with a move to Red Bull next year when a major technical regulation overhaul will come into play. Lawson spent some time at the senior team this year, having entered the opening two rounds as a Red Bull driver before being replaced by Yuki Tsunoda. Hadjar has held an impressive record against Lawson since the New Zealander returned to the Faenza-based squad this year, prompting praise from the 23-year-old. “He’s done a very good job this year,” Lawson told media including RacingNews365 . “To have a podium this season is pretty spectacular. He’s doing a really great job. “In some ways, I think a lot of drivers always feel ready for another step. He's doing all the right things right now.” However, the Red Bull car has proven to be tricky to drive for several of Verstappen's team-mates in recent years. While it is an obstacle that could also hit Hadjar, Lawson stated the 20-year-old is equipped to take the chance. "It depends on what position the car is in next year, how it is to drive,” Lawson said. “That’s probably the biggest thing about that seat right now. So there are a lot of variables there. “As a driver, he's ready. If you're ready to be in F1 in the first place, I think you'd be ready for that kind of position."