Lambiase’s announced move to McLaren is causing tension—a meeting took place in Miami between top Formula 1 executives
Gianpiero Lambiase’s move from Red Bull to McLaren starting in 2028 continues to spark discussion in the Formula 1 paddock. After initial reports had already linked Lambiase to a potential role as team principal, both teams felt compelled to publicly address the situation.
In a statement, McLaren clarifies that Lambiase will assume the position of Chief Racing Officer in the future and will continue to report to Team Principal Andrea Stella. Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies had previously sparked speculation with comments made in Miami. “GP has been given an extraordinary opportunity there. He will become team principal there,” Mekies told Sky Sports on Friday.
This statement was later presented to McLaren CEO Zak Brown on the same day. He responded with humor: “Apparently, he knows something I don’t. I already have a team principal, and a very good one at that. Andrea Stella is the best in the pit lane. I couldn’t be happier with Andrea.”
Meeting in Miami according to Mekies
On Sunday morning, a meeting takes place between Brown, Mekies, and Red Bull Managing Director Oliver Mintzlaff in the Red Bull hospitality area. After the Miami Grand Prix, Team Principal Mekies is asked about the conversation.
“It was about Red Bull. He just wanted to try a Red Bull,” the Frenchman jokes at first. He then explains: “We talk to Zak very often, and to other colleagues as well. It had nothing to do with any specific issue. None of us wanted to turn it into a game of ping-pong. We had a good conversation, as always, and then we moved on.”
Stella remains calm
In light of the current speculation surrounding his future at McLaren, team principal Stella remains calm and is in a joking mood.
“To be honest, some of the recent rumors have made me smile, including those about astronomical salaries and alleged pre-contracts,” says Stella. “It almost seems as if the silly season has started particularly early this year.”
With regard to Lambiase’s move, the Italian adds metaphorically: “It almost looks as if a jealous pastry chef has tried to sabotage the preparation of a good dessert in the McLaren pastry shop. But we know very well how to distinguish good ingredients from poisoned cookies.”
Red Bull is planning for the long term without Lambiase
While McLaren is preparing for future collaboration with Lambiase, Red Bull is already working on potential succession plans, according to Mekies.
“I’ve said many times that we don’t want to view the loss of some talent defensively. It’s a fact, and it’s been happening for three or four years,” explains Mekies. “That’s why the team’s top priority is to create an environment that keeps, develops, and attracts the best talent in the pit lane.”
The Frenchman also emphasizes that Red Bull relies primarily on its own personnel strength. He particularly highlights engine chief Ben Hodgkinson and technical director Pierre Waché. “We believe we already have the best talent in every area,” says Mekies. “Whenever possible, we want to promote from within. We’ve developed a lot of talent over the past few years, and we’re proud of that.”
Mekies doesn’t rule out external hires
“If we need specific skills or experience from some of our valued competitors, then we’ll act as we’ve done before,” explains Mekies.
In doing so, he points, among other things, to the new team structure with expanded responsibilities for Ben Waterhouse, as well as the upcoming arrival of Andrea Landi, who is expected to join from Ferrari and Racing Bulls.
Brown also tries to downplay the discussions afterward. When asked about possible tensions between McLaren and Red Bull, he replies jokingly: “I brought over some Monster to see if they want to try that instead of Red Bull.” Afterward, however, he clarifies: “No, everything is fine. I get along very well with Laurent. We just had to clear up a few things.”
