What Does Lambiase Leaving Red Bull Indicate for Verstappen’s F1 Future?

      Jeff Speer via Getty

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      Dutch journalist Jacky Martens appeared on Formula 1 photographer Kym Illman's podcast Thursday morning to confirm a major rumor that has circulated for months: Gianpiero Lambiase, known as Max Verstappen's engineer, will be leaving Red Bull at the end of 2027 to join McLaren.

      Much like Mercedes' "Bono," Lambiase has achieved Superstar Engineer status over the years thanks to his successful collaboration with Verstappen. This level of recognition has made him a target for several teams in the paddock, including Aston Martin, Williams, McLaren, and Ferrari. As I write this, McLaren has released a statement confirming Lambiase's new role as Chief Racing Officer, where he will report directly to team principal Andrea Stella.

      While this move is certainly beneficial for Lambiase’s career and finances, the key question remains: what does this mean for Super Max?

      Mark Thompson via Getty

      It's clear that Red Bull is currently facing challenges. Verstappen is visibly frustrated, which is understandable for a four-time F1 champion. Is he frustrated enough to leave? I believe the answer is yes. However, it will depend on the performance of the car between the Miami Grand Prix and the mandatory summer break. If there isn't significant improvement by that time, I predict Verstappen will have to make a difficult decision regarding his future at Red Bull during the shutdown. The pressure is on Laurent Mekies to deliver results.

      That said, believing the Milton Keynes team won't recover would be a grave error. The question is how quickly they can make those changes. They are likely in the process of regrouping, adapting, and improving, especially given the unexpected month-long hiatus due to the canceled Middle Eastern races.

      Kym Illman via Getty

      Verstappen has multiple options if he chooses to continue his F1 career. Virtually every team on the grid would do everything possible to attract him. I see Mercedes as the biggest threat to Red Bull. Toto Wolff has been vocal about his interest in signing Verstappen. Who would be most affected by such a move? George Russell, of course. The British driver has had a turbulent tenure at Brackley, frequently being kept waiting until the last minute regarding contract negotiations. With his teammate, the promising Kimi Antonelli, rising in stature, there's a strong chance Wolff will pursue Verstappen aggressively.

      And what about Aston Martin? Will Lawrence Stroll finally recognize that one of his two drivers must step aside for someone who can advance the team? Could it be his own son, who is set to start racing GT cars, or the new dad, Fernando Alonso? Regardless, it would require a lot of persuasion and an eye-watering salary to convince Verstappen and his management, especially given their current difficulties with Honda. But then again, is there anything that Daddy Stroll can’t achieve?

      What do you think Lambiase’s departure indicates about Verstappen’s future?