Max Verstappen's F1 race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, has explained the unusual "crocodile" problem he faces during grands prix.
Verstappen and Lambiase have worked together since Verstappen was promoted to the senior team in 2016, with the two forging one of the most iconic driver-engineer partnerships in F1 history.
The pair are renowned for their robust exchanges over the team radio, with Lambiase often giving short shrift to any complaint Verstappen has.
However, explaining how he navigates Verstappen's bite, Lambiase has detailed how he is often navigating tricky waters with Crocodiles.
"You’re on a boat down a river, and you’re surrounded by a whole load of
crocodiles," Lambiase told the Wall Street Journal.
"You’re dealing with the closest crocodile to the boat. That’s all we’re doing.
"You have to do what is right for the team and driver at the time, and if you start being concerned about what you’re saying, then I think you’re lost in showbiz.
"You're his complete circle of friends in one: a dad, a sports psychologist, best friend, worst enemy, everything.
"He’s very straightforward, blunt and honest, but he expects that similar
level of treatment back.
"If you try to pander to him, wrap him in cotton wool, and try to be his best mate and be that yes-man, you will lose him within months."
Also interesting:
Join RacingNews365's Ian Parkes, Sam Coop and Nick Golding, as they look back on the Azerbaijan Grand Prix! Oscar Piastri's shock Baku crashes are a major talking point, as is whether Max Verstappen has drawn himself back into the F1 title fight.
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