P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Why Gianpiero Lambiase isn’t the only ace McLaren could play to lure Max Verstappen from F1 rival Red Bull
If McLaren wants to secure the top driver in Formula 1 and entice Max Verstappen away from Red Bull, this would be the ideal moment. The four-time world champion is unhappy with F1’s new rules and Red Bull’s poor performance in 2026 has worsened his frustrations. Verstappen is contemplating his future and may leave F1 at the end of the season due to his dissatisfaction. His longtime race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, is leaving Red Bull for McLaren, causing shockwaves in the paddock.
Verstappen could potentially depart Red Bull for McLaren soon, utilizing an exit clause allowing him to leave if he’s not in the top two by mid-season. This move could shake up the driver market and force McLaren to make tough decisions with their current lineup. Zak Brown could offer Verstappen a spot in McLaren’s Hypercar program for 2027, providing a year of sportscar racing before potentially returning to F1. This alternative option may suit all parties involved and align better with Verstappen’s desires.
