Max Verstappen has stated he will not block his race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase from joining rival team McLaren in 2028, calling any attempt to prevent the move 'stupid.' The four-time Formula 1 champion made the remarks in an interview published on the official F1 website.
In a surprising show of sportsmanship, Max Verstappen has confirmed he will not stand in the way of his race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase’s planned move to McLaren in 2028. The Dutch driver told the official Formula 1 website that blocking the transfer would be ‘stupid.’
Who is Gianpiero Lambiase?
Lambiase has been Verstappen’s race engineer at Red Bull Racing since 2016, playing a pivotal role in the driver’s four consecutive world championships. Their partnership is one of the strongest in the paddock, with constant radio communication during races. Lambiase is known for his calm demeanor and technical acumen, often credited with helping Verstappen extract maximum performance from the car.
Why does Verstappen support the move?
Verstappen explained that he understands Lambiase’s professional ambitions and does not believe it is his right to restrict his career. ‘If he wants a new challenge, that’s his right. I’m here to support him, not hinder him,’ Verstappen said. This mature stance reflects Verstappen’s confidence in his own abilities and the strength of the Red Bull team around him.
When will the transfer happen?
According to reports, Lambiase is set to join McLaren in 2028, after his current contract with Red Bull expires. Neither team has disclosed financial details or the length of the new contract. The move is still several seasons away, giving Red Bull ample time to find a replacement.
How will this affect Red Bull and Verstappen?
Losing an experienced race engineer could be a blow to Red Bull, but Verstappen remains unfazed. ‘We have a strong team, and we’ll find the right replacement. Formula 1 is full of talent,’ he said. The news comes amid a period of administrative changes at Red Bull, making this part of a broader transformation. Verstappen emphasized that his focus remains on the current season, not on events four years away.
What do fans think?
Fan reactions have been mixed. Some praise Verstappen’s professionalism and respect for his engineer’s ambitions, while others worry that Lambiase’s departure could impact Verstappen’s performance. However, Verstappen has dismissed such concerns, stating that the team’s strength lies in its collective talent, not any single individual.
Key facts
- Driver: Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
- Engineer: Gianpiero Lambiase
- New team: McLaren
- Year of move: 2028
- Verstappen’s stance: Will not block; calls prevention ‘stupid’
- Source: Formula 1 official website
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Gianpiero Lambiase?
He is Max Verstappen’s race engineer at Red Bull Racing, known for their strong working relationship that has contributed to four world titles.
Why is Lambiase moving to McLaren?
According to statements, Lambiase is seeking a new challenge in his career, and Verstappen respects that decision.
When will the move happen?
The transfer is scheduled for 2028, after Lambiase’s current contract with Red Bull ends.
How will this affect Verstappen’s performance?
Verstappen is unconcerned, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to find a suitable replacement and noting the depth of talent in F1.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Gianpiero Lambiase?
He is Max Verstappen's race engineer at Red Bull Racing, known for their strong working relationship that has contributed to four world titles.
Why is Lambiase moving to McLaren?
According to statements, Lambiase is seeking a new challenge in his career, and Verstappen respects that decision.
When will the move happen?
The transfer is scheduled for 2028, after Lambiase's current contract with Red Bull ends.
How will this affect Verstappen's performance?
Verstappen is unconcerned, expressing confidence in the team's ability to find a suitable replacement and noting the depth of talent in F1.
Sources
- Formula 1 Official — Verstappen reacts to Lambiase's McLaren move
