Max Verstappen has recently commented on the departure of his long-time race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase. Lambiase, who has been with Red Bull since 2016, is set to take over as Chief Racing Officer at McLaren by 2028. His contract with Red Bull extends until the end of 2027.
Verstappen Supports Lambiase’s Move
At a recent event in Amsterdam, Verstappen revealed that Lambiase sought his blessing before accepting the McLaren offer. Verstappen stated, “You would be stupid not to do that.” The Dutch driver emphasized that their partnership had already achieved great success.
When discussing the move, Verstappen acknowledged Lambiase’s motivations, particularly concerning his family’s future and the security associated with the new role. “He really wanted to hear that from me,” Verstappen added, indicating the close relationship between the two.
Timing and Future Speculations
The precise timeline for Lambiase’s departure remains uncertain. While Red Bull announced he would leave in 2028, sources indicate McLaren may be negotiating an earlier transition. This news comes amid rising speculation concerning Verstappen’s own future in Formula 1.
Verstappen has expressed frustration with the new direction of Formula 1, particularly the increased reliance on battery-powered racing technology. He even described the recent cars as “anti-racing” and likened them to Mario Kart due to their performance characteristics.
Family and Future Plans
Amid discussions about his future, Verstappen’s father, Jos, has suggested that the situation has evolved since 2021. Despite the speculation surrounding Gianpiero Lambiase’s departure, Jos believes Verstappen will likely continue racing beyond 2026, especially after achieving four championships.
Upcoming Meetings and F1 Changes
- Formula 1 teams will meet with CEO Stefano Domenicali.
- Key issues to discuss include potential rule modifications.
- The Miami Grand Prix is scheduled for May 3.
The evolving dynamics of Formula 1 underscore the significance of these changes, as teams and drivers navigate a rapidly transforming landscape going forward.
