Max Verstappen’s Key Red Bull Ally Set for Major McLaren Move – Report
Max Verstappen’s long-time race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, is reportedly set for a major McLaren move, according to a report. The story says the key Red Bull ally has been offered a substantial contract to join the Woking-based team.
Red Bull tenure and role
Lambiase, an Italian-Brit engineer, joined Red Bull in 2014. He has served as Verstappen’s race engineer throughout the driver’s time at the team.
He also holds the titles Head of Race Engineering and head of racing. His blunt and often humorous pit-wall manner made him well known in the paddock.
Transfer reports and timing
De Limburger first reported the move. De Telegraaf journalist Erik van Haren later verified the claims.
The report states McLaren offered a salary far above his current Red Bull pay. Any switch would occur after his contract ends at the close of 2027.
Other suitors and recent links
Rumours at the end of last year linked Lambiase with Williams and Aston Martin. Those reports suggest several teams sought his services.
Potential role at McLaren
Speculation suggests Lambiase could replace Andrea Stella as team principal. Other commentary has floated a return to Ferrari, where he once worked as a race engineer.
McLaren previously attracted staff from Red Bull, including Rob Marshall and Will Courtenay. Lambiase would be another high-profile arrival if the move occurs.
Context: Red Bull personnel changes
Red Bull has faced major shake-ups in the past 18 months. Key figures such as Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley left first.
Those departures were followed by Christian Horner and Helmut Marko exiting the team. Lambiase’s reported move would add to that turnover.
Implications for Verstappen
Lambiase has been credited as an important factor in Verstappen’s success. The pair developed a close working relationship and friendship.
The reported departure has sparked fresh speculation about Verstappen’s own future. Some observers point to recent hints from the driver about potential retirement.
Filmogaz.com will monitor further developments as teams and representatives confirm details. More updates will follow as sources and contracts are clarified.
