Verstappen Gave Lambiase Blessing for McLaren Move

Red Bull driver supported his longtime race engineer's decision to join rival team.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:55am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fragmented elements of a Formula 1 car or race, with sharp planes of color and form representing the dynamic relationships between drivers, engineers, and teams.Verstappen's support for his friend Lambiase's career move to a rival team reflects the complex, multi-faceted nature of modern Formula 1 partnerships.Amsterdam Today

Max Verstappen has revealed that he personally encouraged his longtime race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase to accept an offer from McLaren, despite the move ending their successful partnership at Red Bull. Verstappen said he told Lambiase he would be 'stupid' not to take the opportunity, which provides security for Lambiase's family.

Why it matters

The departure of Lambiase, one of the key figures behind Verstappen's two Formula 1 world championships, is a significant loss for Red Bull. It highlights the team's struggle to retain top talent, fueling speculation about Verstappen's own future at the team.

The details

Lambiase will join McLaren as Head of Racing 'no later than 2028', which aligns with the end of Verstappen's current Red Bull contract. Verstappen said he has a 'very good relationship' with Lambiase and hinted they may work together again in the future, even outside of Formula 1.

  • Lambiase will join McLaren no later than 2028.

The players

Max Verstappen

A Dutch racing driver who is a two-time Formula 1 world champion, currently driving for Red Bull Racing.

Gianpiero Lambiase

Verstappen's longtime race engineer at Red Bull Racing, who will be joining McLaren as Head of Racing.

Andrea Stella

The current McLaren team principal, who may return to Ferrari in the future.

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What they’re saying

“He told me what kind of offer he received. I said 'You would be stupid not to do that'.”

— Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Driver

“Of course, I have a very good relationship with GP. And who knows, maybe in the future we will work together again outside of Formula 1. We are friends for life. We are still young.”

— Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Driver

The takeaway

Verstappen's support for Lambiase's move to McLaren highlights the strong personal bond between the two, even as it signals a significant shift in the power dynamics at Red Bull. The departure of a key figure like Lambiase raises questions about the team's ability to retain top talent and Verstappen's own long-term future with the team.