Max Verstappen has once again been linked to McLaren in Formula 1 market speculations, but Juan Pablo Montoya believes the move would be far from a simple choice. The former F1 driver stated that the Dutchman should think carefully before considering a transfer to the Woking team.
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Rumors about Verstappen’s future at Red Bull Racing have gained momentum in recent weeks, with McLaren being pointed out as a possible destination. Despite this, the team’s CEO, Zak Brown, has repeatedly denied this possibility, while Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have long-term contracts.
During the MontoyAS podcast, the Colombian was straightforward when commenting on the possibility of Verstappen changing teams. For him, adapting to McLaren would be more complex than many imagine, especially given the structural changes surrounding the organization.
Part of the speculation involves Gianpiero Lambiase, Verstappen’s race engineer for several years, who is expected to take on the role of Chief Racing Officer at McLaren in 2028. Montoya, however, emphasized that this role will be very different from the one currently held alongside the four-time world champion.
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“First of all, Gianpiero will not be a race engineer. He will hold a much higher position within the team’s structure. So, if Max goes there, he will be present, but in a higher position in the hierarchy, not working directly with him on a day-to-day basis,” said the former driver.
Montoya also highlighted that the move will represent a big challenge for Lambiase himself. According to him, the professional will need to adapt to new internal processes, working methods, and the culture of a team different from the one he currently knows.
“For Gianpiero, this change will also be a completely new world. New programs, new mindsets, and a totally different way of working. He will also have to learn all of this, and that doesn’t happen overnight,” concluded the Colombian.
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