Highly coveted behind the scenes, Gianpiero Lambiase had several prestigious options before choosing McLaren. A trajectory that confirms his status in the paddock… and logically revives questions about Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull.
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Gianpiero Lambiase’s upcoming departure from Red Bull Racing for McLaren is no coincidence. On the contrary, the British engineer was one of the most sought-after profiles in the paddock, as revealed by Christijan Albers.
“Of course I called him. I wanted to know what was happening and there were obviously several things in progress. One or two months ago, we were already hearing rumors about Aston Martin” he explains.
According to several sources, including journalist Erik van Haren, close to Max Verstappen, Lambiase had very serious options, including a team principal role mentioned at Aston Martin, as well as concrete interest from Williams.
A deliberate career choice
In the end, it was McLaren that won out, a choice that Albers perfectly understands.
“For him, it’s the best opportunity. He also has to manage his own career” he emphasizes.
In a paddock where every player thinks about their evolution, Lambiase is no exception to the rule.
“It’s not just the drivers, but also the team principals, engineers, or mechanics. Everyone must stay alert to the best opportunities” he adds.
A clear observation in a Formula 1 where individual progression has become essential, even outside the cockpit.
Verstappen consulted… and supportive
Despite the close relationship between Lambiase and Max Verstappen, this departure does not seem to be a brutal break. On the contrary, the four-time world champion’s camp reportedly validated this decision.
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“He is very loyal to Max, and I am sure they discussed it. But when such an opportunity presents itself, you have to grab it with both hands” says Albers.
Even his father, Jos Verstappen, confirmed this trend: “We had known for a while that he was going to leave. It’s a great opportunity for him and we told him to take it.”
A statement that shows a certain serenity on the Verstappen side, despite the importance of the duo formed with Lambiase.
Red Bull limited, McLaren more attractive ?
For Albers, Lambiase’s decision is also explained by the limited prospects at Red Bull.
“I think he can become a team principal. This possibility doesn’t exist at Red Bull, so there’s no need to hesitate for long” he analyzes.
A strong argument in a sport where career trajectories no longer concern only drivers. The British engineer thus seems to have chosen a project offering him more long-term responsibilities.
Verstappen’s future still under scrutiny
Inevitably, this move revives speculation about Verstappen’s future, with some seeing it as a possible signal of departure. A theory notably put forward by Ralf Schumacher. But this reading is dismissed by Jos Verstappen.
“He talks a lot of nonsense” he says dryly, before tempering: “That was years ago, and things have changed, especially after four world titles.”
He concludes with a clear position: “It’s up to Max to decide, but I think he will continue with Red Bull.”
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