{"id":1873625,"date":"2026-04-09T09:30:47","date_gmt":"2026-04-09T06:30:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1873625"},"modified":"2026-04-09T09:30:47","modified_gmt":"2026-04-09T06:30:47","slug":"max-verstappens-f1-future-even-more-in-doubt-after-gianpiero-lambiase-shock","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1873625","title":{"rendered":"Max Verstappen\u2019s F1 future even more in doubt after Gianpiero Lambiase shock"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;]<\/p>\n<article>\n<header id=\"lbs-article\" class=\"article header article-header section layout layout--article-header\">\n<div class=\"col headline\">\n<div>\n<h1>Max Verstappen\u2019s F1 future even more in doubt after Gianpiero Lambiase shock<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>The bombshell reports that Max Verstappen\u2019s right-hand man Gianpiero Lambiase is set to leave Red Bull for McLaren have cast a further spotlight on the Dutchman\u2019s F1 career. Amid his quit threats over unhappiness at F1\u2019s new rules, it is perhaps Lambiase\u2019s departure that leaves the biggest doubt on Verstappen\u2019s career&#8230;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"section two-column\">\n<div class=\"col article-info\">\n<div>\n<address> Lewis Larkam <\/address>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div><time datetime=\"2026-04-09T10:30:47+01:00\">09 Apr 2026<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col article-actions\">\n<div class=\"block block-better-social-sharing-buttons block-social-sharing-buttons-block\">\n<div class=\"social-sharing-buttons\"><span class=\"ssb-title\"> Share<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div id=\"lbs-content\" class=\"content wide-two-column-sticky section layout layout--wide-two-column-sticky\">\n<div class=\"col first-column\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Lambiase has engineered Verstappen throughout his Red Bull career<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-preferred-source\">\n<div class=\"preferred-source-cta\">  Add as a preferred source <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The news that Max Verstappen\u2019s long-serving race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, is to leave Red Bull and join McLaren, has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">On Thursday morning, reports in Dutch media, including\u00a0<em>De Limburger<\/em> and\u00a0<em>De Telegraaf<\/em>, claimed that Lambiase will complete a shock switch to McLaren in 2028 once his existing Red Bull contract expires at the end of next year.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">It is important to stress that nothing has been officially confirmed at this stage, nor has Red Bull or McLaren commented on the matter. However, the claims have been widely reported and backed up by sources with knowledge of the situation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Here\u2019s what the bombshell news could mean for all parties involved\u2026<\/p>\n<h2><strong>What next for Max Verstappen?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The immediate question on everybody\u2019s lips is what does this mean for Verstappen\u2019s future.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase is Verstappen\u2019s right-hand man and has engineered the Dutchman throughout his Red Bull stint from being fast-tracked into the team four races into the 2016 season, to becoming four-time world champions together.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Verstappen and Lambiase have formed an incredibly close bond throughout their years working together, building an iconic driver-engineer partnership.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-d77c9fabcd3f6ed4c4cc57bf124c983e79eeb9c17b9888ae90018cea30bf7a7f\">  Why crucial F1 rules decisions won\u2019t be made in this week\u2019s meeting   Verstappen to lose right-hand man to McLaren bombshell report claims <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Some disagreements and moments of tension during team radio exchanges have led many to compare Verstappen and Lambiase\u2019s relationship to that of a marriage. But it is a partnership that has been hugely successful and bettered only in modern times by Lewis Hamilton and Peter \u2018Bono\u2019 Bonnington at Mercedes.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Verstappen will lose another key ally in Lambiase<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Verstappen has praised the clear and straightforward communication from Lambiase, who he considers as a central pillar to his on-track triumphs.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-6de6f1dd2a5c04ea771eabfc61ac7e89f40352c948cc45c2894d1322bffe634a\">  McLaren hands F2 champion Silverstone F1 test   Outspoken race winner claims F1 \u201cdoesn\u2019t need\u201d Max Verstappen <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase\u2019s looming departure comes at a pivotal moment in Verstappen\u2019s F1 career.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The 28-year-old Dutchman, who is contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028, is already considering walking away from F1 at the end of the year due to his dissatisfaction with the new regulations in 2026.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Whether Verstappen was already aware of Lambiase\u2019s impending exit, or if it has blindsided him, remains unclear at this stage. We should find out more when Verstappen next speaks to the media when F1 returns at the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">These were already set to be a crucial few weeks for Verstappen as he weighs up his options amid suggestions he could sensationally retire from F1.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Either way, this marks a significant blow for Verstappen, who has lost several close allies at Red Bull in recent years.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Top advisor and close friend Helmut Marko departed at the end of 2025, while sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, chief mechanic Matt Caller and Verstappen\u2019s long-serving front end mechanic Ole Schack, have either departed or are about to.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Add to this Verstappen\u2019s displeasure with the new rules, and the poor start made by Red Bull in 2026, and it feels as though the four-time world champion is closer than ever to quitting F1.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>What it means for McLaren\u2019s future\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Lambiase will support Stella in his role as team principal<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">By securing Lambiase\u2019s signature, McLaren is strengthening an already formidable organisation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase was linked with both Aston Martin and Williams and is understood to have turned down an offer from the former to become its new team principal in order to join McLaren. McLaren won the battle for Lambiase\u2019s services by offering him a lucrative salary and senior position that is set to see him become head of race engineering.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The 45-year-old Briton will take on some of team principal Andrea Stella\u2019s duties to relieve the strain on the Italian, enabling him more freedom to focus on his leadership responsibilities.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">According to some reports, McLaren is anticipating that Stella could join Ferrari. A return to Ferrari as its team principal would have obvious appeal for the 55-year-old Italian, who started at Maranello as an engineer back in 2000, before later serving as race engineer to Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Last summer Fred Vasseur was handed a new multi-year contract to continue as Ferrari\u2019s team principal, but the exact length of the deal has not been made public. If Vasseur cannot lead Ferrari to championship success in the coming years, the Scuderia could turn to Stella, who has strengthened his already respected reputation by ending McLaren\u2019s own long-standing title droughts.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Even if these reports turn out to be incorrect and Stella remains in situ, the move to capture Lambiase represents smart long-term succession-planning by McLaren.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">It is also a play that could open the door for a new destination for Verstappen. Might he be tempted to jump ship and join a McLaren team that has won three of the last four world championships on offer?\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Where does Red Bull go from here?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, 2026 Japanese GP<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0XPB Images<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">From the outside, Red Bull appears to be falling apart.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase leaving would mark the latest high-profile figure to go, following the likes of Christian Horner, who was sacked last July, design legend Adrian Newey, who joined Aston Martin, Wheatley, Marko, chief designer Rob Marshall and chief strategist Will Courtenay.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Like Lambiase, Marshall and Courtenay both swapped Milton Keynes for Woking.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Laurent Mekies has done a brilliant job to steady the ship since being thrust into the helm as Horner\u2019s replacement, but the cracks are nevertheless on display. Red Bull is enduring tough times since being knocked off its F1 pedestal by McLaren at the end of 2024.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">After poor results amid a lacklustre start to its new Ford partnership in 2026, the spotlight is only intensifying on Red Bull, who currently sit sixth in the constructors\u2019 championship with only 16 points after the opening three races.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Pressure is reportedly mounting on Red Bull\u2019s technical team led by Pierre Wache as they battle to address the chassis and weight issues plaguing the RB22 that have left Verstappen and Isack Hadjar increasingly frustrated.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Should Verstappen leave, either to quit F1 for good, or join a rival team, Red Bull would be left in a real mess. Given its current competitiveness, or lack of, finding a replacement of Verstappen\u2019s calibre would be extremely difficult.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">These are alarming and worrying times for Red Bull.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h2>In this article<\/h2>\n<div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">F1<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Max Verstappen<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Red Bull<\/div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">McLaren<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-next-prev\">\n<div class=\"next-prev-pager contextual-region\">\n<div class=\"items\">\n<div class=\"item prev\">\n<h3>  Previous<\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Ferrari back in F1 test action at Fiorano<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1393474_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1393474_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1393474_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1393474_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1393474_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1393474_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1393474_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1393474_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1393474_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-author-block block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<div class=\"author-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-b7a9243cae395ce037b8b497dcd72e569cfc3a43d7c8bd2743d82581ba5c1244\">\n<div class=\"card user default\">\n<div class=\"image\"> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=270&amp;format=webp 270w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=180&amp;format=webp 180w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/1bc46a82-ac76-40ea-9cf5-d309b802b0ef_1.jpeg?height=90&amp;format=webp 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"info\">\n<div class=\"header\">\n<div class=\"text\">\n<div class=\"name\">Lewis Larkam<\/div>\n<div class=\"role\">F1 Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<p>Lewis regularly attends Grands Prix for Crash.net around the world. Often reporting on the action from the ground, Lewis tells the stories of the people who matter in the sport.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"views-element-container block block-views-blockrelated-content-related-content-block\">\n<h3>More News<\/h3>\n<div class=\"grid-view grid-2 js-view-dom-id-0e6a27548358500303a4c317fa285612d52d5ea555caacb90e77a66307d387aa\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Red Bull insists &#8220;no discussions&#8221; about Max Verstappen&#8217;s F1 future &#8220;if we get a fast car&#8221;<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775570400\"> 07\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603290544.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Verstappen is not enjoying the new generation of F1 cars\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Damon Hill tells Max Verstappen &#8220;stop and do something else&#8221; amid F1 displeasure <\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775376000\"> 05\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603280033.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Verstappen has continually been linked with Mercedes\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Why Oscar Piastri believes Mercedes is beatable in F1 2026<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775318100\"> 04\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404161_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Piastri, McLaren, Antonelli, Mercedes, Japan, F1, 2026\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u201cDon\u2019t feel sorry for me\u201d: Max Verstappen talks F1 career dilemma<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775308980\"> 04\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603290590_0.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Verstappen is weighing up his F1 future \" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Red Bull wants F1 rule changes to focus on 2027 \u2018while there\u2019s time\u2019<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775290200\"> 04\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-03\/si202603270376.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Verstappen was once again unhappy with his Red Bull\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>McLaren seeing \u201cthe strongest Oscar since he\u2019s been in F1\u201d after early setbacks<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1775214000\"> 03\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1404653_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Oscar Piastri, McLaren, F1, 2026, Japanese GP\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col second-column\">\n<div class=\"sticky\">\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>The bombshell reports that Max Verstappen\u2019s right-hand man Gianpiero Lambiase is set to leave Red Bull for McLaren have cast a further spotlight on the Dutchman\u2019s F1 career. Amid his quit threats over unhappiness at F1\u2019s new rules, it is perhaps Lambiase\u2019s departure that leaves the biggest doubt on Verstappen\u2019s career&#8230;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The news that Max Verstappen\u2019s long-serving race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, is to leave Red Bull and join McLaren, has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">On Thursday morning, reports in Dutch media, including\u00a0<em>De Limburger<\/em> and\u00a0<em>De Telegraaf<\/em>, claimed that Lambiase will complete a shock switch to McLaren in 2028 once his existing Red Bull contract expires at the end of next year.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">It is important to stress that nothing has been officially confirmed at this stage, nor has Red Bull or McLaren commented on the matter. However, the claims have been widely reported and backed up by sources with knowledge of the situation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Here\u2019s what the bombshell news could mean for all parties involved\u2026<\/p>\n<h2><strong>What next for Max Verstappen?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The immediate question on everybody\u2019s lips is what does this mean for Verstappen\u2019s future.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase is Verstappen\u2019s right-hand man and has engineered the Dutchman throughout his Red Bull stint from being fast-tracked into the team four races into the 2016 season, to becoming four-time world champions together.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Verstappen and Lambiase have formed an incredibly close bond throughout their years working together, building an iconic driver-engineer partnership.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-d77c9fabcd3f6ed4c4cc57bf124c983e79eeb9c17b9888ae90018cea30bf7a7f\">  Why crucial F1 rules decisions won\u2019t be made in this week\u2019s meeting   Verstappen to lose right-hand man to McLaren bombshell report claims <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Some disagreements and moments of tension during team radio exchanges have led many to compare Verstappen and Lambiase\u2019s relationship to that of a marriage. But it is a partnership that has been hugely successful and bettered only in modern times by Lewis Hamilton and Peter \u2018Bono\u2019 Bonnington at Mercedes.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Verstappen will lose another key ally in Lambiase<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Verstappen has praised the clear and straightforward communication from Lambiase, who he considers as a central pillar to his on-track triumphs.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-6de6f1dd2a5c04ea771eabfc61ac7e89f40352c948cc45c2894d1322bffe634a\">  McLaren hands F2 champion Silverstone F1 test   Outspoken race winner claims F1 \u201cdoesn\u2019t need\u201d Max Verstappen <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase\u2019s looming departure comes at a pivotal moment in Verstappen\u2019s F1 career.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The 28-year-old Dutchman, who is contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028, is already considering walking away from F1 at the end of the year due to his dissatisfaction with the new regulations in 2026.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Whether Verstappen was already aware of Lambiase\u2019s impending exit, or if it has blindsided him, remains unclear at this stage. We should find out more when Verstappen next speaks to the media when F1 returns at the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">These were already set to be a crucial few weeks for Verstappen as he weighs up his options amid suggestions he could sensationally retire from F1.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Either way, this marks a significant blow for Verstappen, who has lost several close allies at Red Bull in recent years.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Top advisor and close friend Helmut Marko departed at the end of 2025, while sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, chief mechanic Matt Caller and Verstappen\u2019s long-serving front end mechanic Ole Schack, have either departed or are about to.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Add to this Verstappen\u2019s displeasure with the new rules, and the poor start made by Red Bull in 2026, and it feels as though the four-time world champion is closer than ever to quitting F1.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>What it means for McLaren\u2019s future\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Lambiase will support Stella in his role as team principal<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">By securing Lambiase\u2019s signature, McLaren is strengthening an already formidable organisation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase was linked with both Aston Martin and Williams and is understood to have turned down an offer from the former to become its new team principal in order to join McLaren. McLaren won the battle for Lambiase\u2019s services by offering him a lucrative salary and senior position that is set to see him become head of race engineering.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The 45-year-old Briton will take on some of team principal Andrea Stella\u2019s duties to relieve the strain on the Italian, enabling him more freedom to focus on his leadership responsibilities.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">According to some reports, McLaren is anticipating that Stella could join Ferrari. A return to Ferrari as its team principal would have obvious appeal for the 55-year-old Italian, who started at Maranello as an engineer back in 2000, before later serving as race engineer to Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Last summer Fred Vasseur was handed a new multi-year contract to continue as Ferrari\u2019s team principal, but the exact length of the deal has not been made public. If Vasseur cannot lead Ferrari to championship success in the coming years, the Scuderia could turn to Stella, who has strengthened his already respected reputation by ending McLaren\u2019s own long-standing title droughts.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Even if these reports turn out to be incorrect and Stella remains in situ, the move to capture Lambiase represents smart long-term succession-planning by McLaren.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">It is also a play that could open the door for a new destination for Verstappen. Might he be tempted to jump ship and join a McLaren team that has won three of the last four world championships on offer?\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Where does Red Bull go from here?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, 2026 Japanese GP<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0XPB Images<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">From the outside, Red Bull appears to be falling apart.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase leaving would mark the latest high-profile figure to go, following the likes of Christian Horner, who was sacked last July, design legend Adrian Newey, who joined Aston Martin, Wheatley, Marko, chief designer Rob Marshall and chief strategist Will Courtenay.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Like Lambiase, Marshall and Courtenay both swapped Milton Keynes for Woking.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Laurent Mekies has done a brilliant job to steady the ship since being thrust into the helm as Horner\u2019s replacement, but the cracks are nevertheless on display. Red Bull is enduring tough times since being knocked off its F1 pedestal by McLaren at the end of 2024.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">After poor results amid a lacklustre start to its new Ford partnership in 2026, the spotlight is only intensifying on Red Bull, who currently sit sixth in the constructors\u2019 championship with only 16 points after the opening three races.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Pressure is reportedly mounting on Red Bull\u2019s technical team led by Pierre Wache as they battle to address the chassis and weight issues plaguing the RB22 that have left Verstappen and Isack Hadjar increasingly frustrated.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Should Verstappen leave, either to quit F1 for good, or join a rival team, Red Bull would be left in a real mess. Given its current competitiveness, or lack of, finding a replacement of Verstappen\u2019s calibre would be extremely difficult.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">These are alarming and worrying times for Red Bull.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The news that Max Verstappen\u2019s long-serving race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, is to leave Red Bull and join McLaren, has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">On Thursday morning, reports in Dutch media, including\u00a0<em>De Limburger<\/em> and\u00a0<em>De Telegraaf<\/em>, claimed that Lambiase will complete a shock switch to McLaren in 2028 once his existing Red Bull contract expires at the end of next year.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">It is important to stress that nothing has been officially confirmed at this stage, nor has Red Bull or McLaren commented on the matter. However, the claims have been widely reported and backed up by sources with knowledge of the situation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Here\u2019s what the bombshell news could mean for all parties involved\u2026<\/p>\n<h2><strong>What next for Max Verstappen?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The immediate question on everybody\u2019s lips is what does this mean for Verstappen\u2019s future.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase is Verstappen\u2019s right-hand man and has engineered the Dutchman throughout his Red Bull stint from being fast-tracked into the team four races into the 2016 season, to becoming four-time world champions together.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Verstappen and Lambiase have formed an incredibly close bond throughout their years working together, building an iconic driver-engineer partnership.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-d77c9fabcd3f6ed4c4cc57bf124c983e79eeb9c17b9888ae90018cea30bf7a7f\">  Why crucial F1 rules decisions won\u2019t be made in this week\u2019s meeting   Verstappen to lose right-hand man to McLaren bombshell report claims <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Some disagreements and moments of tension during team radio exchanges have led many to compare Verstappen and Lambiase\u2019s relationship to that of a marriage. But it is a partnership that has been hugely successful and bettered only in modern times by Lewis Hamilton and Peter \u2018Bono\u2019 Bonnington at Mercedes.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1396596_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Verstappen will lose another key ally in Lambiase<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Verstappen has praised the clear and straightforward communication from Lambiase, who he considers as a central pillar to his on-track triumphs.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-6de6f1dd2a5c04ea771eabfc61ac7e89f40352c948cc45c2894d1322bffe634a\">  McLaren hands F2 champion Silverstone F1 test   Outspoken race winner claims F1 \u201cdoesn\u2019t need\u201d Max Verstappen <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase\u2019s looming departure comes at a pivotal moment in Verstappen\u2019s F1 career.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The 28-year-old Dutchman, who is contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028, is already considering walking away from F1 at the end of the year due to his dissatisfaction with the new regulations in 2026.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Whether Verstappen was already aware of Lambiase\u2019s impending exit, or if it has blindsided him, remains unclear at this stage. We should find out more when Verstappen next speaks to the media when F1 returns at the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">These were already set to be a crucial few weeks for Verstappen as he weighs up his options amid suggestions he could sensationally retire from F1.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Either way, this marks a significant blow for Verstappen, who has lost several close allies at Red Bull in recent years.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Top advisor and close friend Helmut Marko departed at the end of 2025, while sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, chief mechanic Matt Caller and Verstappen\u2019s long-serving front end mechanic Ole Schack, have either departed or are about to.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Add to this Verstappen\u2019s displeasure with the new rules, and the poor start made by Red Bull in 2026, and it feels as though the four-time world champion is closer than ever to quitting F1.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2><strong>What it means for McLaren\u2019s future\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403389_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Lambiase will support Stella in his role as team principal<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">By securing Lambiase\u2019s signature, McLaren is strengthening an already formidable organisation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase was linked with both Aston Martin and Williams and is understood to have turned down an offer from the former to become its new team principal in order to join McLaren. McLaren won the battle for Lambiase\u2019s services by offering him a lucrative salary and senior position that is set to see him become head of race engineering.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">The 45-year-old Briton will take on some of team principal Andrea Stella\u2019s duties to relieve the strain on the Italian, enabling him more freedom to focus on his leadership responsibilities.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">According to some reports, McLaren is anticipating that Stella could join Ferrari. A return to Ferrari as its team principal would have obvious appeal for the 55-year-old Italian, who started at Maranello as an engineer back in 2000, before later serving as race engineer to Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Last summer Fred Vasseur was handed a new multi-year contract to continue as Ferrari\u2019s team principal, but the exact length of the deal has not been made public. If Vasseur cannot lead Ferrari to championship success in the coming years, the Scuderia could turn to Stella, who has strengthened his already respected reputation by ending McLaren\u2019s own long-standing title droughts.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Even if these reports turn out to be incorrect and Stella remains in situ, the move to capture Lambiase represents smart long-term succession-planning by McLaren.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">It is also a play that could open the door for a new destination for Verstappen. Might he be tempted to jump ship and join a McLaren team that has won three of the last four world championships on offer?\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><strong>Where does Red Bull go from here?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403868_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, 2026 Japanese GP<\/div>\n<div class=\"source\"> \u00a9\u00a0XPB Images<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">From the outside, Red Bull appears to be falling apart.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Lambiase leaving would mark the latest high-profile figure to go, following the likes of Christian Horner, who was sacked last July, design legend Adrian Newey, who joined Aston Martin, Wheatley, Marko, chief designer Rob Marshall and chief strategist Will Courtenay.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Like Lambiase, Marshall and Courtenay both swapped Milton Keynes for Woking.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Laurent Mekies has done a brilliant job to steady the ship since being thrust into the helm as Horner\u2019s replacement, but the cracks are nevertheless on display. Red Bull is enduring tough times since being knocked off its F1 pedestal by McLaren at the end of 2024.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">After poor results amid a lacklustre start to its new Ford partnership in 2026, the spotlight is only intensifying on Red Bull, who currently sit sixth in the constructors\u2019 championship with only 16 points after the opening three races.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Pressure is reportedly mounting on Red Bull\u2019s technical team led by Pierre Wache as they battle to address the chassis and weight issues plaguing the RB22 that have left Verstappen and Isack Hadjar increasingly frustrated.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Should Verstappen leave, either to quit F1 for good, or join a rival team, Red Bull would be left in a real mess. Given its current competitiveness, or lack of, finding a replacement of Verstappen\u2019s calibre would be extremely difficult.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">These are alarming and worrying times for Red Bull.\u00a0<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;http:\/\/crash.net\/f1\/feature\/1092932\/1\/max-verstappens-f1-future-even-more-doubt-after-gianpiero-lambiase-shock&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202508310193.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;] Max Verstappen\u2019s F1 future even more in doubt after Gianpiero Lambiase shock The bombshell reports that Max Verstappen\u2019s right-hand man Gianpiero Lambiase is set to leave Red Bull for McLaren have cast a further spotlight on the Dutchman\u2019s F1 career. Amid his quit threats over unhappiness at F1\u2019s new rules, it is [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[47,226],"class_list":["post-1873625","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crash-net","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1873625","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1873625"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1873625\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1873625"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1873625"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1873625"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}