Why Lambiase rejected Ferrari and remained loyal to Verstappen

Gianpiero Lambiase’s name was in the F1 spotlight this past week as the British engineer was reported to have received an offer from Ferrari.

Lambiase has been Max Verstappen’s right-hand man since 2016, but recently got the option to switch allegiances and work with Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari.

The Italian squad wanted to add a major asset in the hunt to help Hamilton to an eighth world title. Lambiase sits as an important pawn in Red Bull’s success and currently holds the role of head of race engineering at the Milton Keynes-based squad.

In the end, Ferrari received a clear “no” from Lambiase and RacingNews365 understands that he recently extended his contract at Red Bull.

It is an important decision for Red Bull as after the confirmed departures of Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley, it was theorised that more key figures could leave the team.

But Lambiase has opted to stay put and remain loyal to Verstappen and Red Bull. Verstappen reiterated several times that he wants to work with Lambiase going forward – the duo have built a strong relationship, winning three F1 titles together. 

Of course, there are sometimes heated discussions in the public eye, such as the Hungarian Grand Prix in July, but according to both, such moments are necessary to achieve success. 

Red Bull presenting opportunities

But why has Lambiase decided to stay at Red Bull? First of all, the strong relationship and cooperation with Verstappen will have undoubtedly played a role. 

Such a major change prompts a restart for all parties and Lambiase would first have to get used to a new environment AND driver – it usually takes some time for those team members to gel. 

And despite having Italian roots, Lambiase lives his life entirely in Britain, meaning a move to Italy would be a significant decision. 

But Lambiase would have looked primarily at the opportunities within Red Bull. With key figures such as Newey and Wheatley leaving the squad, it frees up important positions. Wheatley filled the role of sporting director, and Helmut Marko already indicated that the team will divide that position among several people. 

Rumour has it that Lambiase has a chance of promotion, taking another step up the Red Bull ladder, while the terms of his contract have also been significantly improved.

It is there not surprising that Lambiase has extended his stay at Red Bull. He is working with a world champion he knows inside out, while new challenges within the company also await the experienced engineer. 

While a move to Ferrari would present its own unique opportunity, Lambiase has shown he is enjoying himself at Red Bull – leading him to stick with the reigning champions for the time being.