Gianpiero Lambiase’s transfer to McLaren is already shaking Red Bull. And some observers are sounding the alarm about the risks ahead.
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The announcement sent shockwaves through the paddock: Gianpiero Lambiase will leave Red Bull in 2028 to join McLaren. A major recruit for the British team, which is acquiring one of the most influential engineers of recent years.
Currently Max Verstappen’s race engineer, Lambiase has been a key element in the Dutchman’s dominance, actively contributing to the conquest of his world titles and an impressive winning streak. His progressive promotion within Red Bull, up to becoming head of race engineering, demonstrates his strategic importance.
But this deferred transfer already raises questions, notably about Red Bull’s internal management in the years to come.
Jolyon Palmer warns Red Bull
Former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer was quick to point out a major risk: the possibility of sensitive information gradually leaking to McLaren. According to him, the situation demands extreme vigilance from Red Bull.
“He is someone who will join McLaren with a complete knowledge of how Red Bull operates” he explains, emphasizing that this transfer could provide a considerable advantage to the rival team.
Even though this move will only take effect in 2028, the issue arises now. Palmer stresses a key point: Red Bull will have to carefully manage the information Lambiase will have access to in the coming years.
“They have to be careful. Much like with driver transfers, they don’t want him to accumulate too much information before his departure” he adds, highlighting a delicate dilemma for the team.
A unique relationship with Max Verstappen
Lambiase’s departure is not just a simple technical loss. It also marks the announced end of an iconic duo with Max Verstappen, considered one of the most effective driver-engineer partnerships in recent Formula 1 history.
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Their rapport, often audible on the radio, has greatly contributed to the success of the four-time world champion. Lambiase has understood and channeled Verstappen’s high demands, playing a decisive role in his performances.
His departure could therefore have repercussions far beyond the technical aspect, directly affecting the human balance within the team.
“Another nail in Red Bull’s coffin”?
For Palmer, this announcement fits into a broader trend: that of a gradual weakening of Red Bull through the departure of key figures.
“It’s huge. He’s not a driver, but he’s a major personality in the team” he emphasizes. He also recalls that McLaren is making a particularly strategic move by attracting such an experienced profile.
According to him, Lambiase brings much more than technical skills: “He understands how to build a fast car, but also how to manage a very demanding world champion” he specifies.
In this context, Palmer does not hesitate to use a strong phrase: “It’s another nail in Red Bull’s coffin”. A statement that illustrates growing doubts about the team’s stability.
Red Bull faces a major internal challenge
In the short term, Lambiase will continue in his role, while Red Bull seeks to bounce back after a difficult start to the season. But behind the scenes, managing this transition promises to be complex.
Between the need to remain competitive and the need to protect its secrets, the team will have to find a subtle balance. One thing is certain: this departure, even if distant, is already weighing heavily in the strategic game among the top teams.
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