May 29 (GMM) Andrea Stella has pushed back against renewed speculation that Max Verstappen’s long-time race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase is being lined up to replace him as McLaren team principal.
The rumours resurfaced after Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies suggested again in Canada that Lambiase’s future role at McLaren would be as a team principal.
“Look, it’s certainly my understanding that GP is going to McLaren to become a team principal,” Mekies said.
“That’s what I told you at the time. Obviously, we had a number of conversations before he was going to make the decision.”
“Now don’t ask me if it’s going to happen, the timing of it is none of my business. I can just tell you the content of our conversations.”
Mekies’ comment only fuelled ongoing speculation that Stella could eventually return to Ferrari, where he previously worked during the Michael Schumacher era.
However, speaking amid the latest round of rumours, Stella made clear he sees Lambiase’s arrival as strengthening McLaren’s leadership structure rather than replacing it.
“I have been part of the Ferrari team in the early 2000s, and I know what level of seniority, expertise and leadership you need to be successful in the present and in the future,” Stella said.
“Employing GP is part of this vision, which is a vision of creating additive leadership that can integrate with the present leadership and create a stronger and stronger team at McLaren.”
“I very strongly wanted GP to join McLaren.”
The Italian admitted the demands of running the reigning world champions have become increasingly intense. “I am personally very stretched in my role as team principal, and I need a strong group of leaders working with me,” Stella said.
“So I think the plan is very clear. Any other speculation leads us back to the silly season.”
Stella, 55, then delivered his clearest statement yet about his own future.
“I’m definitely fully committed to McLaren,” he insisted.
“For me the mission is very clear: we need to fill that new area of the trophy cabinet for the years to come at McLaren.”
As for Lambiase, Stella said his recruitment is simply part of McLaren’s strategy of attracting Formula 1’s top talent.
“At McLaren, we want to employ the best people in Formula 1, the best expertise, the best leaders,” he said. “The fact that GP decided to join McLaren, for me, just speaks to the credibility of our team.”
“So, silly season? What’s important for us is stability and that the best talents in Formula 1 want to join McLaren.”
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
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