Key Verstappen ally retains Red Bull role after exit report

Following reports that a key ally would be leaving Max Verstappen's inner circle this year, it seems the individual will remain in his role after all.

The four-time world champion works on a permanent basis with a team of four Red Bull engineers around him. 

Throughout 2024, Gianpiero Lambiase was the chief engineer, with the support of Tom Hart, David Mart and Michael Manning. 

However, it was reported that Manning would move to a different role within Red Bull following the conclusion of the 2024 season, which saw Verstappen clinch another drivers' title.

It was stated that Manning no longer desired to be present at all races as he pursued new challenges.

But a change does not seem to be on the cards as Red Bull confirmed to RacingNews365 that Manning will remain in the role of control engineer in 2025.

Manning holds responsibility for Verstappen's race starts, monitoring systems to ensure he has successful launches off the line in the crucial opening phase of a grand prix.

Verstappen has repeatedly stated that he prefers to continue working with a permanent, unchanging core, which has proved to be successful over the last several years.

The 27-year-old is hunting for his fifth F1 title this year, but it is predicted to be a highly competitive season with several teams tipped to be in the mix for the championship.