In the fast-paced world of Formula 1, Max Verstappen’s partnership with his Red Bull race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, may seem stormy at times, but there’s no denying its critical role in the Dutch driver’s remarkable success. As they continue to dominate the 2023 Formula 1 season, Max Verstappen and Lambiase have shared their thoughts and fears about the future. Meanwhile, McLaren made a valiant attempt to challenge Verstappen’s supremacy at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, making headlines with their strategic moves.
Lambiase Lists His Biggest Fear Despite Being With The Champion
Max Verstappen’s journey to Formula 1 greatness has been marked by his collaboration with race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase. Over the last three seasons, this partnership has secured three titles, despite the occasional heated exchanges heard over team radio. Verstappen, however, emphasizes that their teamwork is essential to their on-track success. With 17 race wins (and counting) in the 2023 season, one might wonder if they ever get tired of winning. Verstappen’s response is resounding: “Not winning motivates me every single day.”
Lambiase, on the other hand, holds a different concern. He fears the day when increased competition may threaten their dominance. “My biggest fear is the moment that we do have increased competition and we’re not winning every race,” he admits, half in jest. Despite spending long hours together at the track, both Verstappen and Lambiase value their time apart. This helps them stay fresh during race weekends. They have been together for eight seasons, and their bond extends beyond the racetrack. Verstappen divides his time between simulator work in the UK and quality moments with his family and friends in Monaco.
McLaren’s Bold Move, Chasing Max Verstappen!
After the Sao Paulo Grand Prix restart, McLaren made an audacious attempt to challenge Max Verstappen’s dominance. They put everything they had into this endeavor. Lando Norris, who began the race from the sixth position on the grid, made an exceptional start. This outstanding start propelled him to second place in the race. With the red flags waving, a Turn 1 incident involving Alex Albon and Kevin Magnussen occurred. Norris found himself second on the grid for the standing restart, where he had to hold off Lewis Hamilton. Although Norris got tantalizingly close to Verstappen during the early stages, the Red Bull driver eventually pulled away. He secured his 18th victory of the season.
Andrea Stella, McLaren’s Team Principal, explained that the team’s strategy was to go all-in after the red flag and attempt to seize the lead from Verstappen. They started on a new set of soft tires to try and disrupt Verstappen’s rhythm. Stella revealed, “We went very close to doing that on track but could not.” The McLaren team made every effort to close the gap, but their tires started to overheat, and Verstappen managed the situation effectively. Despite their best efforts, McLaren had to concede victory to the formidable Red Bull driver. In the high-stakes world of Formula 1, the Verstappen-Lambiase partnership remains a dominant force, while McLaren’s determined challenge shows that the quest for victory never wavers, even in the face of formidable competition. The 2023 Formula 1 season continues to deliver thrills and surprises, with Max Verstappen and Red Bull at the forefront.
