After Max Verstappen’s victory at the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, rumors about a potential move of his race engineer, GianPiero Lambiase, to Aston Martin began to circulate. However, it has now been confirmed that Lambiase will stay with Red Bull, solidifying the Max Verstappen emotional bond ahead of the pivotal 2026 Formula 1 season.
Since their partnership began with Verstappen’s breakthrough win at the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix, Lambiase and Verstappen have become one of Formula 1’s most successful duos. Lambiase played a crucial role in guiding Verstappen to four consecutive world titles from 2021 through 2024. Although Verstappen narrowly missed claiming a fifth title by just two points to McLaren’s Lando Norris at this year’s Abu Dhabi event, his achievements were marked by clear emotional moments between him and Lambiase on the pit wall.
An Enduring Race Engineer Partnership
Verstappen and Lambiase have shared a unique professional and personal journey over nearly a decade. Their relationship was thrust into the spotlight following the recent Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Lambiase was visibly moved, prompting speculation of an imminent departure or change in his role. Reports initially suggested he might transition to a factory-based job, but Red Bull has clarified that Lambiase will maintain his place as Verstappen’s race engineer while continuing as head of racing operations.
Verstappen Shares His Perspective on Their Close Ties
During the post-race press conference, Verstappen directly spoke about his feelings toward Lambiase and the importance of their connection as colleagues and friends.
“Forget about the results this year. I also don’t want to go too much into detail, but it’s been tough. But I’m very happy to be able to work with someone that passionate. Of course, he is my race engineer, but I see him as my friend. We have lived through so many emotional things together and fantastic achievements.”
— Max Verstappen, F1 Driver
These words underscored the challenges faced over the season and the mutual respect that has grown out of on-track successes and hardships. Verstappen added context to Lambiase’s visible emotion in Abu Dhabi:
“I’m sure he was a bit emotional after the flag,”
— Max Verstappen, F1 Driver
He continued to reflect on their dynamic and Lambiase’s perseverance:
“I’m really looking forward to leaving here and catching up with him because it’s not been easy at times for him. I’m just very proud to be able to work with someone that good—a proper example of someone that never gave up this season, even through the difficult times.”
— Max Verstappen, F1 Driver
2026: New Rules and Renewed Ambitions for Red Bull
With questions about his partnership with Lambiase settled, Verstappen and Red Bull shift their focus to the revolutionary 2026 Formula 1 season. This new chapter for the championship features sweeping changes such as 50 percent electrification, sustainable fuels, and advanced active aerodynamics, representing some of the most significant rule updates in F1’s history.
Red Bull is taking a bold step by developing its own engines for the first time through its Powertrains operation, in a high-profile collaboration with the American automaker Ford. The team’s all-new RB22 car will leverage a pushrod suspension system, aiming for improved handling—a design trend expected to be followed by rivals like Ferrari as technical regulations force teams away from the ground-effect setups dominant from 2022 to 2025.
What Lies Ahead for Verstappen, Lambiase, and the Team
The off-season now sees both Red Bull and their sister squad, Racing Bulls, preparing to unveil their striking 2026 car liveries at Ford’s season launch event in Detroit. As the countdown continues, fans and competitors keep a close eye on the evolving Red Bull-McLaren rivalry, the emergence of new talents such as Ollie Bearman, and the ever-present threat of teams like Ferrari adapting to F1’s rapidly changing environment. Lando Norris’s recent triumph over Verstappen has reinvigorated this competition, while the steadfast bond between Verstappen and Lambiase promises Red Bull a strong foundation in the coming year.
Amidst uncertainties and high expectations, Max Verstappen’s emotional bond with his race engineer stands as a symbol of commitment and resilience. As the 2026 season approaches, the pair look to build on past triumphs and meet new challenges head-on, ensuring their partnership remains at the heart of Red Bull’s pursuit of further glory in Formula 1.
