Marko acknowledges that the 'GP' departure is recognized as concerns about Verstappen increase.

      "You shouldn't prevent someone from leaving."

      Dr. Helmut Marko has revealed that he was already aware of Gianpiero Lambiase’s intended move, as speculation regarding Max Verstappen’s future grows. "I've known for a while that 'GP' is going to McLaren," Marko, the former team advisor, told Krone newspaper in Vienna. "He’s a key staff member, and naturally, he’s bound by a non-compete clause – he could take valuable secrets or detailed information with him."

      The Austrian also recognized the potential implications for Verstappen, whose long-term dedication to Red Bull is facing increasing scrutiny. "The situation is becoming more critical for Max - the most crucial aspect for him to remain is that he wins again soon," Marko stated. This aligns with growing discussions in the paddock that Verstappen might trigger an exit clause in his contract if Red Bull fails to be competitive by mid-season.

      Former driver Ralf Schumacher believes Lambiase’s departure could hasten that possibility. "I think there will be negotiations between the two sides. I can’t see him finishing 2027 at Red Bull," he remarked. "It will now revolve around a transfer fee, as when a decision is made this early, it typically involves the engineer leaving."

      Schumacher also mentioned that Red Bull is unlikely to make a significant effort to retain Verstappen. "You shouldn't stop someone who wants to leave. Gianpiero Lambiase always said 'I’m with Max and Max is with him.' That stance no longer appears to hold. In my opinion, Max will seek new directions next year."

      He outlined several possibilities, including a transition to McLaren. "On one hand, this could indicate he leaves Red Bull because he’s lost faith in the team and quits entirely," he noted. "Alternatively, he could join McLaren along with his engineer, which would imply that negotiations are in progress at McLaren for Oscar Piastri to move to Red Bull."

      Dutch journalist Erik van Haren, who is closely connected to the Verstappen camp, agrees that the situation is dynamic. "A lot is happening behind the scenes, and even more will unfold in the coming months regarding Verstappen," he shared with De Telegraaf. "McLaren’s Zak Brown is very intrigued by Max, and there's a mutual respect between them. With Lambiase, they'll have an additional advantage.

      "But that’s not the entirety of it. Ferrari and Mercedes will certainly be monitoring the situation as well."