Drama as Verstappen’s Race Engineer Confirms Heated Internal Clashes
Max Verstappen’s long-time Formula 1 race engineer, Gianpiero “GP” Lambiase, has opened up about the true nature of the so-called “heated” exchanges that often take place between the Red Bull driver and the pit wall during races. While fans frequently hear tense moments over team radio broadcasts, Lambiase says the reality behind those conversations is more complex — and often more intense — than what reaches the public.
Lambiase has worked with Verstappen since the Dutch driver joined Red Bull Racing in 2016. Over the years, their partnership has become one of the most successful driver-engineer pairings in modern F1, helping deliver four world championships and more than 70 Grand Prix victories. Despite speculation near the end of last season suggesting their collaboration might be coming to an end — along with off-season rumors linking Lambiase to a possible move away from Red Bull — the duo are set to continue working together into the 2026 season.
Speaking in a chapter of the new book Pressure, written by F1 broadcaster Simon Lazenby and 1996 world champion Damon Hill, Lambiase described how communication differs depending on who he is speaking to during a race. He explained that while his tone toward Verstappen over the radio may sound controlled and measured, the discussions happening simultaneously among team members on the pit wall can be far more animated.
According to Lambiase, when others on the pit wall question Verstappen’s reactions or requests, he often has to quickly explain the driver’s perspective. For example, if Verstappen is pushing for a pit stop and the team chooses not to bring him in, frustration can build rapidly — especially if tyre performance is visibly dropping. In those moments, Lambiase says he relays the urgency of the situation to colleagues in direct terms, emphasizing that decisions must be made quickly and based on clear evidence.
He noted that these internal exchanges are not driven by personal attacks or bad intent, but by the pressure of operating in real time at the highest level of motorsport. Split-second calls can determine race outcomes, and team members must be able to speak openly and honestly. Lambiase credits Red Bull for fostering an environment where frank discussion is allowed and even encouraged, provided it remains focused on performance and problem-solving rather than blame.
Several past incidents have highlighted the fiery side of Verstappen and Lambiase’s radio relationship. One notable moment came during the 2024 Hungarian Grand Prix, when strategy decisions led to Verstappen being undercut twice by Lewis Hamilton. The situation triggered sharp radio exchanges between driver and engineer, including a broadcast comment in which Lambiase appeared to call Verstappen “childish.” Afterward, Red Bull clarified that the remark had been taken out of context and did not fully reflect the tone or intent behind the conversation.
Another tense episode occurred during qualifying at the 2023 Belgian Grand Prix, where Verstappen expressed anger over what he considered poor execution by the team, using explicit language over the radio. That clip quickly circulated among fans, reinforcing the perception of a volatile dynamic. However, those inside the team maintain that such moments are part of a working relationship built on trust, high standards, and emotional investment.
Despite the occasional on-air friction, Lambiase and Verstappen are widely regarded within the paddock as having a strong and effective partnership. Both are known for their direct communication styles and competitive intensity. Rather than damaging their collaboration, their willingness to challenge each other is seen as a strength that helps refine decisions under pressure.
Lambiase emphasized that honesty is essential during race weekends, even knowing that many radio messages are broadcast globally. He believes transparency and the freedom to speak plainly — even when emotions run high — ultimately contribute to better performance and stronger teamwork when it matters most.
