Sep.13 (GMM) Gianpiero Lambiase could now leave Red Bull for McLaren as early as 2027, with preparations already underway for Max Verstappen to work without his long-time race engineer.
Lambiase’s move to McLaren was announced earlier this year for 2028, but speculation accelerated in Madrid after he was seen openly speaking with Zak Brown in the McLaren hospitality area.
Auto Motor und Sport says McLaren has always wanted Lambiase as soon as possible, while De Telegraaf reports Red Bull is already planning for life without him.
Verstappen is expected to work with Tom Hart for three races later this season – Austin, Sao Paulo and Las Vegas – while Lambiase remains employed by Red Bull through the end of the year.
That has fuelled speculation that an earlier period of gardening leave could allow Lambiase to start at McLaren in 2027 rather than 2028.
McLaren has not confirmed that a revised agreement is complete.
Red Bull, however, appears to be moving ahead with its contingency plans.
Tom McCullough has already been recruited from Aston Martin and is due to begin work as Head of Racing, while Lambiase’s wider trackside technical responsibilities are expected to be divided among several people.
The Madrid paddock activity further added to the intrigue, with Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies seen visiting McLaren’s motorhome and Brown also seen at Red Bull.
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES