Red Bull Confirms Max Verstappen’s Race Engineer Gianpiero Lambiase is Staying with the Team
Red Bull has put an end to speculation surrounding the future of Max Verstappen’s race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, confirming that he will not be leaving the Formula 1 team. The rumors of his exit emerged after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where McLaren’s Lando Norris secured his first F1 drivers’ championship, edging out Verstappen by just two points.
The season finale was a nail-biting conclusion to a tense three-way title fight, with Verstappen ultimately coming up short despite winning the race for a fifth time. The Dutch driver’s close relationship with Lambiase, who has been his race engineer since 2016, was evident in the emotional exchange between the two on the team radio after the race. Lambiase, known in F1 as ‘GP’, was seen on the Red Bull pitwall with his head in his hands and in tears, prompting speculation about his future with the team.
In the post-race press conference, Verstappen was asked about his radio message to Lambiase and their relationship, which appeared to fuel the rumors of Lambiase’s departure. However, Verstappen’s comments were misinterpreted, and Red Bull has since confirmed that Lambiase will remain with the team. Verstappen praised Lambiase, saying: “He is my race engineer, but I see him as my friend. We have lived through so many emotional things together and fantastic achievements.”
Lambiase has been a key figure in Verstappen’s success, with the pair working together to secure four world titles and two constructors’ titles. The 45-year-old engineer has been a trackside engineer in F1 for 20 years and was promoted to head of racing at Red Bull last year. He joined Red Bull Racing in 2015 from Force India (now Aston Martin) and has been an integral part of the team’s success.
The confirmation of Lambiase’s stay comes amid a period of change for Red Bull Racing, with long-time team principal Christian Horner sacked in July after 20 years with the team. Horner was replaced by engineer Laurent Mekies, who served as team principal at Red Bull’s sister team Racing Bulls before the move. Additionally, Helmut Marko, the team’s motorsport advisor, announced he is stepping away after 20 years at the end of 2025.
Lambiase’s Partnership with Verstappen
The partnership between Lambiase and Verstappen has been one of the most successful in F1 history. The pair has worked together since 2016, except for two races earlier this year when Lambiase was absent for personal reasons. Their collaboration has seen Verstappen win four world titles, including his first as F1’s youngest world champion, and two constructors’ titles.
Verstappen’s praise for Lambiase is a testament to the engineer’s dedication and expertise. The Dutch driver has consistently credited Lambiase with playing a crucial role in his success, and their relationship extends beyond the track. Lambiase has been a constant presence in Verstappen’s career, providing guidance and support throughout the highs and lows.
The confirmation of Lambiase’s stay is a boost for Red Bull Racing, which will look to bounce back from a disappointing season in 2025. With Lambiase and Verstappen remaining together, the team will be hoping to regain their dominance in the sport and challenge for another world title.
What’s Next for Red Bull Racing?
With Lambiase’s future secured, Red Bull Racing will now focus on the upcoming season. The team will look to regroup and challenge for another world title, with Verstappen and Lambiase leading the charge. The partnership between the two has been a key factor in the team’s success, and their continued collaboration will be crucial in the pursuit of another championship.
The team’s new leadership, including team principal Laurent Mekies, will face a challenging task in regaining their dominance in the sport. However, with Lambiase and Verstappen remaining together, Red Bull Racing will be hopeful of a strong season ahead.
As the F1 season comes to a close, the focus will shift to the upcoming season, with teams preparing for the new campaign. Red Bull Racing will be one of the teams to watch, with Verstappen and Lambiase leading the charge. The confirmation of Lambiase’s stay is a boost for the team, and fans will be eager to see what the future holds for the partnership.
