Max Verstappen's Private Reaction to Red Bull Engineer's McLaren Move Revealed
Max Verstappen's behind-closed-doors reaction to the departure of his Red Bull race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase has been disclosed, with the four-time world champion reportedly backing his confidant's career move to title rivals McLaren.
Verstappen Supports Lambiase's Decision Amid Red Bull Uncertainty
According to insider reports, Verstappen has expressed support for Lambiase's choice to leave Red Bull after his contract concludes, taking up a new role as McLaren's chief racing officer in 2028. This development comes amidst prolonged speculation about Verstappen's own future with the team, despite his recent recommitment following talks with Mercedes.
An anonymous source revealed: "GP has been offered a fortune to go and that is understandable. There is no objection on Max's part. Quite the opposite. He supports GP and his decision."
Historic Bond Between Driver and Engineer
Lambiase, who has served as Red Bull's head of racing since 2025 and as Verstappen's race engineer since 2015, shares an exceptionally close working relationship with the Dutch driver. Verstappen previously stated to Ziggo Sport in 2021: "I have said to him I only work with him. As soon as he stops, I stop too."
The pair have developed a distinctive shorthand communication style during races, with Verstappen telling Sky Sports F1 in 2023: "That's how we operate. I think we know each other very well from all the years we have been working together."
Red Bull Faces Continued Organizational Upheaval
Lambiase's impending departure represents another significant loss for Red Bull, following a series of high-profile exits:
- Christian Horner was dismissed as team principal in summer 2025 after two decades
- Director of partnerships Julia George and group marketing director Simon Smith-Wright both departed ahead of the 2026 season
- Technical director Rob Marshall joined McLaren in 2024
- Legendary designer Adrian Newey left for Aston Martin in 2025
- Sporting director Will Courtenay vacated his position earlier this year
McLander Strengthens Leadership Structure
McLaren confirmed Lambiase's appointment, stating the chief racing officer role already exists within their structure, with duties currently managed by team principal Andrea Stella. The team emphasized this hire is part of their long-term strategy to build a championship-winning organization.
Red Bull responded with an official statement: "Oracle Red Bull Racing confirms that Gianpiero Lambiase will leave the team in 2028, when his current contract expires. 'GP' is a valued member of the team... The team and he are fully committed to add more success to our strong track record together."
Verstappen's Future Remains Uncertain
Despite reports from The Daily Mail indicating Verstappen plans to remain at Red Bull for the rest of this year and potentially longer, his endorsement of Lambiase's move raises questions. The 28-year-old has previously criticized new F1 regulations this season and suggested he might step away from the sport entirely.
This latest development adds another layer of uncertainty to Verstappen's future, as the driver-engineer partnership that has delivered four world championships prepares to separate, potentially signaling broader changes within the Red Bull racing organization.
