Ferrari Sticks with Hamilton’s Race Engineer; Verstappen's F1 Future Questioned
Lewis Hamilton will maintain his working relationship with race engineer Carlo Santi for the upcoming Miami Grand Prix, while former Ferrari driver Eddie Irvine suggests F1 could manage without Max Verstappen amid his regulatory discontent. Meanwhile, Red Bull faces a staffing shake-up as GianPiero Lambiase prepares to join McLaren.
As Formula 1 gears up for the Miami Grand Prix, Ferrari has decided to retain Carlo Santi as Lewis Hamilton’s race engineer. This continuity comes after Santi stepped in following Riccardo Adami’s reassignment within Ferrari earlier this year. Although Cedric Michel-Grosjean, formerly of McLaren, is expected to eventually take over, Ferrari is sticking with Santi for now, ensuring stability for Hamilton as he returns to action in Miami.
In a different corner of the paddock, former Ferrari driver Eddie Irvine has stirred the pot by claiming that F1 does not necessarily need Max Verstappen. Irvine’s comments come amid growing speculation about Verstappen’s future in the sport. The Dutch driver has been vocal in his criticism of the new F1 2026 regulations, expressing dissatisfaction that could potentially lead to his departure. Despite his contract with Red Bull running until the end of 2028, Verstappen’s recent statements at the Japanese Grand Prix have fueled doubts about his long-term commitment.
Meanwhile, Red Bull is facing a notable departure. Helmut Marko, formerly an advisor to the team, acknowledged the significance of GianPiero Lambiase’s move to McLaren. Lambiase, who has played a crucial role as Verstappen’s race engineer for nearly a decade, will join McLaren as chief racing officer by 2028. This transition marks a significant change for Red Bull, given Lambiase’s longstanding partnership with Verstappen, dating back to their first victory together at the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix.
The discussion of change is not limited to personnel. Red Bull sees the Miami Grand Prix as a strategic opportunity to introduce key upgrades. Team principal Laurent Mekies views this as a moment to relaunch their season, capitalizing on the extended break between the Japanese and Miami races. Ferrari, too, is eyeing Miami for a major upgrade package, having adjusted plans initially set for Bahrain.
In a historical nod, the story of Michael Schumacher’s early 2004 test with the F2004 serves as a reminder of Ferrari’s storied past. His blistering pace at Fiorano left team principal Jean Todt questioning the legality of the car, a tale that remains a favorite among F1 aficionados.
As teams prepare for Miami, the F1 landscape continues to evolve with shifting dynamics both on and off the track.