Max Verstappen remains one of the most formidable drivers in Formula One, consistently delivering top performances despite a challenging 2025 season for Red Bull Racing. Behind his 67 wins, 120 podiums, and four driver’s championships stands his race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, whose straightforward approach has become key to Verstappen’s success.
Inside the Partnership Between Verstappen and His Race Engineer
While Red Bull faced difficulties this season and the McLaren team, led by Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, showed strong dominance, Verstappen’s skill on the track never faltered. After critical updates to the Red Bull car during the summer break, including modifications to the floor, Verstappen quickly returned to championship contention by winning two of the final three races and securing a second-place finish in the other.
Central to this resurgence is Gianpiero “GP” Lambiase, who has served as Verstappen’s race engineer since he joined Red Bull at 18 years old. Lambiase is not only the person Verstappen hears during races but also his strategic partner, guiding the Dutch driver through high-pressure moments at speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour. Their relationship has been forged through a decade of both victories and setbacks, with Lambiase often the focus of Verstappen’s praise or frustration.
The Honest Communication Style Behind Their Effectiveness
Lambiase’s role extends beyond technical expertise—he has mastered the balance required to work with Verstappen’s intense passion and hands-on involvement in car performance and race strategy. According to Lambiase, their secret lies in a candid dynamic. He explained,
“He’s very straightforward, blunt, and honest, but he expects that similar level of treatment back. If you try to pander to him, wrap him in cotton wool, and try to be his best mate and be that yes-man, you will lose him within months.”
—Gianpiero Lambiase, Race Engineer
This mutual honesty means there is no sugarcoating; things are either good or bad, and Verstappen respects this clarity. Lambiase recognizes that Verstappen dislikes evasiveness and appreciates direct feedback, which strengthens their work ethic and trust.
Focus and Composure Amid a Challenging Championship Battle
Despite speculation about Verstappen’s position in the title fight following the recent Baku race, the driver remained grounded and pragmatic. He reflected,
“I don’t rely on hope. But it’s seven rounds left, 69 points is a lot. So I personally don’t think about it, I just go race by race, (which is) what I have been doing the whole season. After Abu Dhabi (and the season finale), we’ll know.”
—Max Verstappen, Driver
Lambiase provides much more than technical guidance; he assumes multiple roles in Verstappen’s life, describing his involvement as being
“dad, a sports psychologist, best friend, worst enemy, everything. You’re his complete circle of friends in one.”
—Gianpiero Lambiase, Race Engineer
This multi-faceted support system is evident in Verstappen’s ability to stay composed through demanding races. At Baku, where many experienced drivers struggled, Verstappen and Lambiase maintained focus and executed effectively to cross the finish line in strong positions.
What Lies Ahead for Verstappen and His Team
As the 2025 Formula One season approaches its conclusion, the Verstappen-Lambiase partnership faces the critical task of defending their championship amidst fierce competition. Their long-standing connection, built on honesty and mutual respect, will be essential in navigating the pressures of the final rounds. If the past decade is any indication, their chemistry and no-nonsense communications approach will continue to be a decisive factor in Verstappen’s pursuit of further success.
GP on Max: “He’s very straightforward, blunt and honest, but he expects that similar level of treatment back. If you try to pander to him, wrap him in cotton wool and try to be his best mate and be that yes-man, you will lose him within months.” pic.twitter.com/CbTHSttPkb
— Verstappen News (@verstappenews) September 23, 2025
