Max Verstappen supports his race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase's decision to join McLaren in 2028, despite their successful partnership at Red Bull. Verstappen acknowledges the challenge of replacing Lambiase but respects his career choice.
Max Verstappen has weighed in on the news of his long-time race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, departing Red Bull for McLaren in 2028. Reflecting on their near-decade partnership, Verstappen remarked that trying to block Lambiase's move "would be stupid from my side."
Since joining forces in 2016 when Verstappen was promoted from Toro Rosso, the duo has achieved remarkable success, including four Drivers' Championship titles and 71 race victories. Lambiase's recent role as Head of Racing at Red Bull only deepened their professional relationship. However, with Lambiase set to become McLaren's Chief Racing Officer in 2028, Verstappen acknowledged the inevitability of change in the fast-paced world of Formula 1.
The Dutch driver expressed his happiness for Lambiase, noting the importance of seizing career opportunities. "We had a good chat about that," Verstappen said during the Miami Grand Prix media day, adding that they will continue to work closely until Lambiase's departure. "Times change in your career, and that was a really good opportunity for him," Verstappen said. "As a team, we keep pushing together, keep looking forward."
The chemistry between Verstappen and Lambiase has been a significant factor in Red Bull's success, with Verstappen acknowledging the rarity of such a dynamic. "The general understanding that we have with each other and the chemistry works really well," he said. "That's very rare I think in racing. You don't see that often, a driver and engineer that gel that well together."
Replacing Lambiase will be no small feat for Red Bull. Verstappen admitted it would be a challenge to find someone who can replicate their unique working relationship. "It's not that easy, but sometimes that happens," he mused, hinting at the complexities of finding the right fit in a sport driven by precision and teamwork.
In the meantime, Verstappen remains focused on the task at hand as he gears up for the Miami Grand Prix, knowing that the team's future success will depend on finding equally talented individuals to step into Lambiase's shoes.