Max Verstappen is "very proud to be able to work with someone as talented" as Gianpiero Lambiase

Right up to the final moments of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Max Verstappen could still dream of a fifth world title. It was ultimately Lando Norris who achieved the ultimate goal at the end of the 2025 season Formula 1 breathtaking. Starting with a 104-point deficit after the Dutch Grand Prix, Verstappen nevertheless came back to within just 2 points of the Briton, marking one of the greatest comebacks in the modern history of the championship.

Proud of his driver's performance, Gianpero Lambiase made sure to offer him words of comfort. Max, you gave it your all. You can be proud of that, my friend.he congratulated on the radio. Keep your head up. "While failing so close to the goal is certainly frustrating for the Dutchman, he didn't show it at all." When we look back at the second half of our season, we can be really, really proud of it. So don't be too disappointed. I certainly am not., Verstappen reassured. I am really proud of all of you. We never give up. "Even the words of support from his driver could not prevent Gianpiero Lambiase from bursting into tears at the finish, reflecting the efforts made throughout the season and perhaps the emotion of a possible farewell to Max Verstappen?"

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A fruitful collaboration comes to an end, but the friendship remains intact.

In 2026, Gianpiero Lambiase is expected to leave his current position alongside Max Verstappen to take on a more senior role within Red Bull, presumably still trackside. The British engineer had already been absent this season for personal reasons, missing the Austrian and Belgian rounds where the Dutchman respectively retired and finished fourth. A first in over a decade of collaboration with the four-time world champion. He was then replaced by Simon Rennie, usually head of motorsport at Red Bull, whose competence Verstappen praised.

After the race, Max Verstappen made a point of paying tribute to his engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase. It's been an emotionally charged year. Forget about the results this year. I don't want to go into too much detail, but it's been difficult. But I'm very happy to be able to work with someone so passionate. thanks the Red Bull driver. He's my race engineer, but I consider him a friend. We've been through so many great moments together and achieved some fantastic things. I'm sure he was a little emotional after the checkered flag. I'm really looking forward to leaving here and spending some time with him, because it hasn't always been easy for him. I'm just incredibly proud to be able to work with someone so talented. He's a true example of someone who never gave up this season, even in the toughest times. »

One question remains: could Simon Rennie permanently succeed Lambiase when the latter takes up his new role? For the time being, no one from the Milton Keynes team has confirmed any decision.