Shock Move: Verstappen's Engineer Lambiase to Join McLaren in 2028

In a surprise move, Red Bull's highly-regarded engineer Gianpiero Lambiase will be joining McLaren in 2028, marking a significant shift in the Formula 1 landscape. Lambiase, who has been Max Verstappen's race engineer since 2016, will take on the role of chief racing officer at McLaren. This development has raised questions about Verstappen's future in the sport, given his previous statements that he would only work with Lambiase as his engineer. The move is seen as a major coup for McLaren, who have been strengthening their team with key hires in recent years. Lambiase's departure from Red Bull, where he has been a valued member since 2015, is set to occur when his current contract expires in 2028. Until then, he will continue in his dual role as Verstappen's race engineer and head of racing. The news has sparked speculation about Verstappen's plans, with the four-time world champion having expressed dissatisfaction with F1's 2026 regulations and hinting at a possible exit from the sport. Lambiase's relationship with Verstappen has been described as a key factor in the driver's success, with the pair known for their straightforward and blunt communication. The engineer's move to McLaren is expected to give him a new challenge and a fresh start, while also bolstering the team's technical expertise. With Lambiase on board, McLaren is poised to make a strong push for championship glory in the coming years.