What Does Lambiase's Departure From Red Bull Indicate About Verstappen's F1 Prospects?

      Jeff Speer via Getty

      The latest updates and reviews on cars, no nonsense

      Subscribe to our daily newsletter for important stories delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

      Like Mercedes’ “Bono,” Lambiase has gained recognition as a top engineer thanks to his successful partnership with Verstappen. This has made him a target for recruitment by several teams in the paddock, including Aston Martin, Williams, McLaren, and even Ferrari. As I wrote this, McLaren released a statement confirming Lambiase’s move to the team as Chief Racing Officer, reporting directly to team principal Andrea Stella.

      While this is certainly a positive development for Lambiase’s career and finances, the pressing question remains: what does this mean for Max Verstappen?

      Mark Thompson via Getty

      It’s clear that Red Bull is currently facing challenges. Verstappen appears frustrated, which is a reasonable reaction for a four-time F1 champion. Is he frustrated enough to leave? I believe the answer is yes. However, it will depend on the car’s performance between the Miami race and the mandatory summer break. If significant improvements are not made by then, I foresee Verstappen contemplating a difficult decision regarding his future at Red Bull during the shutdown. The pressure is now on Laurent Mekies to deliver results.

      Yet, to assume that the Milton Keynes team won’t bounce back would be a significant oversight. The real question is how quickly they can do it. They are likely in the process of regrouping, adjusting, and enhancing their performance, particularly after the unanticipated month-long delay caused by the canceled Middle Eastern races.

      Kym Illman via Getty

      Verstappen has numerous options if he wishes to continue in F1. Almost every team in the pit lane would undoubtedly go to great lengths to attract him. I believe Mercedes poses the biggest threat to Red Bull. Toto Wolff has openly expressed his interest in signing Verstappen. Who would be most impacted by that move? George Russell, naturally. The British driver has had a tumultuous time at Brackley, often left waiting for management to finalize his contract. With the rise of his teammate, the likable Kimi Antonelli, who at 19 symbolizes the team's future, there is increasing reason to think Wolff will act to secure Verstappen.

      How about Aston Martin? Will Lawrence Stroll finally realize that one of his two drivers needs to step aside for someone who can elevate the team? Will that be his son, who is set to start racing in GT cars soon, or the newly a father Fernando Alonso? In any case, it would require substantial persuasion and a hefty salary to convince Verstappen and his management, especially considering Aston Martin's current difficulties with Honda. Nevertheless, is there anything Daddy Stroll can’t accomplish?

      What implications do you think Lambiase’s departure has for Verstappen’s future?