P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Key Max Verstappen ally’s Red Bull future decided
According to multiple reports, Max Verstappen will retain Gianpiero Lambiase as his race engineer for the 2026 season.
Despite rumors of interest from other teams like Aston Martin and Williams, Verstappen and Lambiase have decided to stay together.
Lambiase, who also serves as Red Bull’s head of racing, was a key figure for the team, especially with the new season approaching quickly.
Although Lambiase’s future was under discussion due to personal circumstances, he is now confirmed to start the season in his current roles.
Should Lambiase ever decide to leave Red Bull, he would likely face a period of gardening leave before joining a rival team, as per standard F1 practice.
His long-term contract with Red Bull, running through 2027, solidifies his current position, but changes could still happen in the future.
Lambiase’s decision allows for flexibility, should he need to adapt to new circumstances or seek a different role within F1 later on.
