Tsunoda Reveals Why Verstappen-Lambiase Partnership Is So Dominant

Yuki Tsunoda has highlighted the exceptional efficiency and trust that defines the championship-winning partnership between Max Verstappen and his race engineer, Gianpiero 'GP' Lambiase. The Japanese driver, who has worked with Lambiase, described the communication as a benchmark he aspires to reach, noting its critical role in Red Bull's success.

Why it matters:

The driver-engineer dynamic is a cornerstone of performance in Formula 1, often acting as the critical link between strategy and execution. Verstappen and Lambiase's relationship, built over nearly a decade, exemplifies a level of synchronicity that provides a tangible competitive advantage, turning in-race decisions into instantaneous actions rather than delayed consultations.

The details:

• Tsunoda's insight came after listening to their radio communications during a practice session, where he noted the seamless and efficient flow of information.
• He emphasized that the partnership eliminates procedural delays, stating, "If you have to check something with someone else first, you’re automatically a step behind."
• Lambiase holds a dual role as both Verstappen's race engineer and Red Bull's Head of Racing, which grants him a unique overarching perspective on car performance and race strategy.
• Tsunoda praised Lambiase's capabilities, calling him "one of the most impressive engineers I’ve ever worked with" and highlighting his "incredible" ideas.
• The driver also acknowledged the practical hierarchy, noting that when Verstappen faces issues, Lambiase's priority rightly shifts, which sometimes limited the direct support available to Tsunoda's own, less experienced engineering team.

The big picture:

This partnership transcends a typical working relationship, evolving into a profound friendship forged through intense competition. Verstappen himself paid tribute after the 2025 season, calling Lambiase a friend and praising his unwavering dedication through difficult times. This deep mutual trust and shared history allow for brutally honest feedback and unwavering support, creating a resilient unit that has navigated multiple championship campaigns. Their bond is a key intangible asset for Red Bull, contributing significantly to the team's operational excellence and Verstappen's ability to consistently execute at the highest level.