Max Verstappen’s long-time race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, will not be present at the Austrian Grand Prix this weekend at the Red Bull Ring, sparking speculation among fans worldwide. Amid this absence, reports have surfaced about possible contract discussions between Verstappen’s team and Mercedes, intensifying interest in the situation.
Fans reacted rapidly on social media, sharing humorous and intriguing thoughts about Lambiase’s sudden absence and what it could mean for Verstappen’s future. One fan on X claimed,
“GP is negotiating with Mercedes about the next contract…”
while another added,
“Rage monster Max incoming.”
Additional reactions included concerns about Verstappen’s temper this weekend, such as
“Max is about to ignite WW3 on the radio this weekend if the RB isn’t in the top 3,”
and a fan’s resigned comment,
“Oh we are so cooked.”
Another fan noted humorously,
“Even GP can’t cope now with Verstappen’s rants.”
Gianpiero Lambiase has served as Max Verstappen’s race engineer since 2016, when Verstappen joined Red Bull Racing. Over this period, the pair has experienced numerous challenges and successes, including dominating performances during the current ground-effect era in Formula 1 starting from 2022. Verstappen has claimed four World Championships since 2021, and he is aiming for a fifth title in the 2025 season. He currently holds third place in the Drivers’ standings with 155 points.
For this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix, Simon Rennie will step in as Verstappen’s race engineer, filling in for Lambiase, who is absent due to personal reasons.
Verstappen’s Comments on Sebastian Vettel’s Possible Return to Red Bull
Recent reports have linked former Formula 1 champion Sebastian Vettel to a potential non-driving role within Red Bull Racing. Known for winning four consecutive world titles with the team between 2010 and 2013, Vettel is widely respected in motorsport and especially within the Red Bull organization.
When asked about Vettel’s rumored return during the Austrian Grand Prix weekend, Verstappen expressed support and appreciation for the veteran driver. He stated,
“I mean, it’s more than normal that someone who has achieved so much with Red Bull, has been brought up by Red Bull, yeah, in a sense, there is always a spot available.”
Vettel retired from Formula 1 at the conclusion of the 2022 season while driving for Aston Martin, owned by Lawrence Stroll. Should he rejoin Red Bull, expectedly in an advisory capacity, his knowledge and experience are seen as valuable assets to help maintain the team’s competitiveness in the sport.
This transition could strengthen Red Bull Racing’s position, supporting drivers like Verstappen as they continue to pursue championships in the coming seasons.
