The Dutchman’s race engineer is due to join world champions McLaren in 2028

An important figure in Max Verstappen’s Red Bull Racing camp is set to depart the Milton Keynes team for an F1 rival.

GianPiero Lambiase has been the Dutchman’s race engineer since he joined to Tilbrook team in 2016, helping him to four world championships from 2021-2024.

The Brit is set to join current world champions McLaren from 2028, with another Verstappen ally departing the team following the likes of designer Adrian Newey and driver advisor Dr Helmut Marko.

Lambiase will link up with the Woking outfit as chief racing officer, and will report to team principal Andrea Stella.

A statement from the team said: “Oracle Red Bull Racing confirms that GianPiero Lambiase will leave the Team in 2028, when his current contract expires.

“‘GP’ is a valued member of the Team, which he joined in 2015. Until his planned departure, GP continues in his roles as Head of Racing and as Race Engineer to Max Verstappen.

“The team and he are fully committed to add more success to our strong track record together.”

Also confirming the move, McLaren said: “The team’s ability to attract and secure top talent, like Lambiase, alongside the retention and promotion of highly-talented people already within the team, is a testament to the strategic vision and culture that are integrally embodied in the McLaren Mastercard F1 Team under the leadership of Zak Brown and Andrea Stella, who are also both on long-term contracts.”

Verstappen has spoken openly this season about his dislike of the new F1 regulations and has considered walking away from the sport. His contract with Red Bull runs until the end of the 2028 season.