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

In a surprise move, Max Verstappen's engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, will be leaving Red Bull to join McLaren in 2028. This development was confirmed by both Red Bull and McLaren in separate statements, with Lambiase set to take on the role of chief racing officer at McLaren. Lambiase will continue in his current dual role at Red Bull until his planned departure in 2028. His move to McLaren is seen as a significant hire for the team, strengthening their talent pool and reaffirming their commitment to becoming a championship-winning team. The news has sparked questions about Verstappen's future in the sport, given his previous statements that he would only work with Lambiase as his engineer. Lambiase's relationship with Verstappen has been described as a key factor in the driver's success, with the two sharing a straightforward and communicative dynamic. The move is also seen as a blow to Red Bull, who will be losing a highly-regarded engineer. Lambiase's departure follows other key Red Bull figures who have joined McLaren, including Rob Marshall and Will Courtenay. The development has added to speculation about Verstappen's future in F1, particularly given his criticism of the 2026 regulations and his contract with Red Bull until 2028.