This is where Red Bull will look for Lambiase’s replacement, according to Marko

The Red Bull advisor responds in an exclusive conversation with GPblog to the news that Verstappen’s dedicated race engineer will move to McLaren after 2027.

“I don’t remember all the details anymore, but it’s certainly a big loss. But that’s part of Formula 1,” says Marko, who stepped down from his role as senior advisor at the end of last year.

According to the 82-year-old Austrian, the organization is large enough, however, to absorb the loss. “The team is very big and we have a number of very good, young engineers. A replacement will certainly be found, someone with some experience in a similar role – whoever that may be,” he explains.

There is no name for that successor at this time. Marko confirms that there is still no clarity on that either. There is no great rush: Lambiase is still contracted to Red Bull through 2027 and will therefore not leave until after next season. Moreover, it remains to be seen whether Verstappen will see out his contract and whether a race engineer will need to be found for him or for a potential new driver.

Lambiase’s departure marks the end of one of the most successful and iconic partnerships in Formula 1. The Brit has worked with Verstappen since 2016 and was a key figure during his four world titles. Within Red Bull, he also serves as Head of Racing.

The two were often described within the team as a close-knit duo. Helmut Marko enjoyed their exchanges, Verstappen previously explained. Within the team, Verstappen and Lambiase were regularly referred to as an “old married couple.”

Verstappen did not see the departure coming out of the blue. The Dutchman had been aware of McLaren’s interest for some time and supports Lambiase’s move, partly due to the promotion and financial package. The engineer will initially take on a role similar to his current position, with a view to further advancement within the team over time.

Lambiase’s departure fits into a broader trend at Red Bull, where several key figures have left in recent years. Names such as Adrian Newey, Jonathan Wheatley, Helmut Marko and Christian Horner have exited the organisation, while Rob Marshall and Will Courtenay had already made the switch to McLaren earlier.