Max Verstappen’s Red Bull Future After Race Engineer Departure

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen has been unhappy in F1 throughout the 2026 season, citing issues with the regulations and a lack of enjoyment in his car. Verstappen has always marched to the beat of his own drum, with a competitive mindset and streak that make him such a unique character. He is unpredictable on and off the track in how he acts and reacts to events, making him an interesting driver to follow.

His personality makes his “anti-racing” comments about the new F1 regulations all the more interesting, as he would be a driver who could get fed up enough with the sport to leave flat-out. Nov 21, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen (1) reacts following his victory of the Las Vegas Grand Prix at Las Vegas Strip Circuit. Mandatory Credit: Gary A.

Vasquez-Imagn Images Adding more fuel to a potential Verstappen departure is the loss of Red Bull’s race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, who has been with the four-time champion throughout his success. With the loss of Lambiase , Verstappen loses a trusted voice, and speculation has already started about his willingness to stay with Lambiase out of the picture, and the regulations making him unhappy. Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has made it clear that Verstappen is committed to the team and fully involved.

“Absolutely not,” Mekies said. “That’s my direct answer to you. Obviously, we speak with Max every day.