Shockwaves in F1: Gianpiero Lambiase set to leave Red Bull for McLaren. Gianpiero Lambiase, Red Bull Racing’s key track engineer for Max Verstappen, is reportedly set to join McLaren.

F1 – Breaking: Gianpiero Lambiase to leave Red Bull

According to the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Gianpiero Lambiase is set to leave Red Bull Racing and join McLaren in 2028, in a departure that could also foreshadow Max Verstappen’s future away from Red Bull.

As reported by De Telegraaf, Red Bull is preparing to say goodbye to another key figure in its technical department. Following a series of high-profile departures over the past few years, Gianpiero Lambiase, the long-standing track engineer and operational right-hand man to Max Verstappen, has reportedly accepted an offer from McLaren.

Gianpiero Lambiase to McLaren for Andrea Stella?

The Dutch newspaper further suggests that the Woking-based team has won the race for Lambiase’s signature against other contenders such as Aston Martin and Williams, presenting an extremely attractive financial package. Reports indicate that his potential salary could be up to double his current earnings.

However, the move will not take effect immediately. Lambiase is under contract with Red Bull until 2027, and multiple sources cited by De Telegraaf have confirmed that he will not leave the team before that date. His arrival at McLaren is therefore expected in 2028, in line with previous rumors reported by De Limburger.

Lambiase’s entry would be part of McLaren’s long-term strategy, which also prepares for possible changes at the top of the team. Current team principal Andrea Stella remains highly regarded internally, but he is also considered a potential candidate for a return to Ferrari.

Red Bull: a never-ending exodus

This departure would not be an isolated case. In recent years, several high-profile figures have left Red Bull to join McLaren, including Rob Marshall and Will Courtenay. At the same time, the Milton Keynes-based team has seen major figures exit, likes Adrian Newey (to Aston Martin), Jonathan Wheatley, alongside the gradual reduction of Helmut Marko’s influence and the departure of Christian Horner.

Within this context, Lambiase’s potential exit carries broader significance. His partnership with Max Verstappen has been a cornerstone of Red Bull’s dominance over the years, both technically and in terms of trackside communication.

A departure, even if delayed until 2028, could be a signal not to be underestimated. The exit of Verstappen’s key engineer might raise questions about the Dutch driver’s long-term commitment to Red Bull’s project, fueling speculation about his future beyond the team.