‘I see him as my friend’ – Verstappen pays tribute to race engineer Lambiase after ‘emotional year’

Max Verstappen has paid tribute to long-time race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase following the close of the 2025 season, with the Dutchman feeling “very proud” to work with his colleague after what he called an “emotional year”.

Lambiase – known to many as GP – has race engineered Verstappen since the four-time World Champion joined Red Bull back in 2016, meaning that the pair have shared many highs and lows across their subsequent seasons together.

Their run of consecutive titles came to an end at the 2025 finale in Abu Dhabi as McLaren’s Lando Norris clinched his maiden World Championship, taking the crown by just two points after Verstappen scored his eighth win of the campaign.

Following the race, Lambiase sounded emotional as he told his driver: “Max, you have given everything – you can be proud of that, mate. Hold your head up high.”

Verstappen was heard to say in response: “We showed them one final time who’s boss! Congrats guys, what a comeback in our second half of the season. We can be really, really proud of that so don’t be too disappointed. I’m definitely not disappointed. I’m really proud of everyone to never give up.”

After the race, Verstappen reflected further on what his relationship with Lambiase means to him, particularly after an eventful season of highs and lows.

“It’s been an emotional year,” the 28-year-old explained. “Forget about the results this year. I also don’t want to go too much into detail, but it’s been tough. But I’m very happy to be able to work with someone that passionate.

“Of course, he is my race engineer, but I see him as my friend. We have lived through so many emotional things together and fantastic achievements. I’m sure he was a bit emotional after the flag.

“So, I’m really looking forward to leaving here and catching up with him because it’s not been easy at times for him.

"I’m just very proud to be able to work with someone that good. A proper example of someone that never gave up this season, even through the difficult times.”