Gianpiero Lambiase Set to Leave Red Bull as Aston Martin and Williams Battle for Verstappen’s Engineer Ahead of 2026

Gianpiero Lambiase, the long-time race engineer for Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing, has emerged as one of the hottest names on the Formula 1 market ahead of the 2026 season. Lambiase, who has worked with Verstappen since 2016 and helped deliver multiple world championships, is reportedly set to leave Red Bull after a decade with the team.

Reports indicate that two rival teams are now actively pursuing the Briton for next year: Aston Martin and Williams. Aston Martin has reportedly discussed offering Lambiase a senior leadership role — potentially in management or team operations — which could significantly reduce the amount of travel required compared to his current trackside responsibilities.

Meanwhile, Williams has also entered the race for Lambiase’s signature, led by team figures like James Vowles, reflecting its recent resurgence and ambition to return to the front of the grid. Talks earlier in the off-season suggested he was close to joining Williams before interest from Aston Martin intensified.

Lambiase’s potential departure from Red Bull was further fueled by personal considerations; during the 2025 season he missed several races and had previously requested to limit travel — a factor that may make leadership or management roles more appealing.

At this stage, no official decision has been announced, but insiders expect the engineer will step away from his role as Verstappen’s race engineer. If he leaves, Simon Rennie, who stood in for Lambiase during his absences in 2025, is considered a likely internal successor for the race engineer position.

Lambiase’s possible move marks one of the off-season’s most intriguing storylines, reflecting both his reputation within the paddock and the shifting dynamics among Formula 1 teams as they prepare for the new regulations and the 2026 championship battle.

Credit: redbullracing.com