There is a possibility that Formula 1 will see some major changes with Gianpiero Lambiase moving away from Red Bull Racing to McLaren by 2028.
If this goes ahead, it would not only represent another driver getting transferred but could have a direct effect on the future of Max Verstappen.
Gianpiero Lambiase has worked with Verstappen since 2016 and will take over as head of race engineering at McLaren, and will continue to work at Red Bull until his exit is finalised.
Neither team has made an official comment regarding this move; however, this has raised quite a bit of speculation in the Paddock regarding the future of both teams.
Why is this bigger than a normal exit?
This is not just about a staff change. Gianpiero Lambiase is widely seen as Max Verstappen’s right-hand man.
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The two share one of the most effective driver-engineer partnerships in Formula One. Their direct, often blunt radio exchanges have become a defining feature of Red Bull’s dominance in recent years.
Max Verstappen himself has made his position clear in the past. He has openly said that his future in the sport is tied to Gianpiero Lambiase.
“If he stops, I stop too,” Max Verstappen had said after winning his first title.
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McLaren’s growing influence
The acquisition of Gianpiero Lambiase by McLaren indicates a larger, longer-term goal. In recent years, the team has increased its technical and leadership structures under team principal Andrea Stella.
Additionally, they brought in big names from rival teams, such as senior members from Red Bull. So, bringing Gianpiero Lambiase to the team will further help McLaren’s drive to consistently be one of the best in F1 Racing.
What it means for Max Verstappen
For Max Verstappen, this situation is more than just team dynamics. It ties directly into his long-term future.
The four-time world champion has already expressed concerns over upcoming regulations and hinted at a possible early exit from Formula One.
If Gianpiero Lambiase does leave, there are high chances of Max leaving Red Bull soon.
However, right now, nothing is officially confirmed. Gianpiero Lambiase remains part of Red Bull, and any move is still some distance away.
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