[Saba Sports News] Max Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, has recently revealed the inside story behind Gianpiero Lambiase’s move to McLaren, pointing out that a generous salary package was one of the key factors behind the transfer, once again putting this high-profile personnel change in the media spotlight.
Lambiase has long served as Max Verstappen’s race engineer and has been a vital behind-the-scenes figure in Red Bull’s multiple championship successes. He is set to officially join McLaren as Chief Racing Officer by no later than 2028. The appointment not only marks a career promotion but is also regarded as one of McLaren’s most significant signings in recent years. McLaren, for its part, has emphasized the growing appeal of its team. Team principal Andrea Stella previously stated that Lambiase’s arrival is the perfect finishing touch, demonstrating that the team, after improving both on-track results and team culture, now has the ability to attract top-tier talent. McLaren’s championship triumph in the past season has undoubtedly strengthened its competitiveness within the paddock.
In response, Jos Verstappen directly claimed on social media that a lucrative offer was the main reason for the move. Having already achieved success together, choosing to leave for a more secure contract was the most rational decision.
In the editor’s opinion, Lambiase could emerge as a potential candidate for McLaren’s team principal in the future, and this career path is one of the key attractions for him to join the team. This means the transfer is not only about short-term financial gain but also about long-term career planning.