Who is Gianpiero Lambiase? The stunning Red Bull exit that has rocked F1

A major development in the F1 world has occurred as long-time Red Bull employee Gianpiero Lambiase is set to depart the team.

The 45-year-old is well known for his collaboration with Max Verstappen, having served as his race engineer since the Dutchman's arrival at the team in May 2016.

Together, the pair have won four F1 titles and over 70 grands prix - but Lambiase is now due to take on a fresh career challenge at McLaren.

Now one of the prominent engineering figures in F1, Lamabiase's path to success began with a degree in mechanical engineering from University College London. 

He entered the sport in 2005 as a data engineer with Jordan Grand Prix, staying with the team through its transitions to Midland, Spyker and Force India. 

In 2009, he worked as Giancarlo Fisichella's engineer when Force India achieved its first pole position and podium finish at Spa-Francorchamps.

After engineering roles with Vitantonio Liuzzi, Paul di Resta and Sergio Perez, Lambiase joined Red Bull in late 2014. 

Initially working with Daniil Kvyat, he was suddenly paired alongside Verstappen when the young driver replaced the Russian ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix. The partnership got off to a perfect start as Verstappen won on debut with Red Bull.

In the years that followed, the partnership grew from strength to strength. The peak of Lambiase's success in F1 came between 2021 and 2024 when Verstappen won four consecutive F1 titles.

He held various titles during his stint with Red Bull and was most recently promoted to head of racing in 2024. 

The radio communications during races between Lambiase and Verstappen have become well-known among fans, featuring direct exchanges that have been repeatedly broadcast. 

But Verstappen has continuously spoken positively about their communication and labelled the Briton as a key figure in his historic F1 career.

With his Red Bull stint seemingly now coming to a close, Lambiase will take a decade of success at the team with him to his next career adventure.