Mekies Doubles Down: Lambiase Headed to Become McLaren Team Principal

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has once again stated that Gianpiero 'GP' Lambiase is destined to become McLaren's future team principal, not just a chief racing officer. Speaking at a press conference where McLaren's Andrea Stella was also present, Mekies clarified his understanding of the move first reported in 2025.

Why it matters:

The potential departure of a key Red Bull figure like Lambiase to a direct rival signals a major shift in F1's leadership landscape. If Lambiase eventually takes the top job at McLaren, it would strengthen Woking's already deep bench and test Red Bull's ability to retain talent.

The details:

• Mekies confirmed that Lambiase is joining McLaren as Chief Racing Officer by 2028 at the latest, but insists the long-term plan is for him to become team principal.
• "It's certainly my understanding that GP is going to McLaren to become a team principal," Mekies said, adding that the timing is "none of my business."
• Stella's response: The McLaren team principal pushed back on the specific title, emphasizing that the goal is "additive leadership" to support his own role. He noted that he is "personally very stretched" and needs a strong group around him.
• Stella dismissed speculation about Lambiase replacing him as "silly season," insisting the plan is clear: integrate top talent rather than designate a successor.

What's next:

The Lambiase saga will continue to simmer until his formal move to McLaren begins. For now, the public disagreement between Mekies and Stella over his exact future role adds intrigue to what is already shaping up to be a key personnel battle between two top teams.