Max Verstappen has once again been linked to McLaren amid Formula 1 market speculation, but Juan Pablo Montoya believes that such a move would be far from an easy choice. The former F1 driver stated that the Dutchman should think carefully before considering a transfer to the Woking team.
Rumors about Verstappen’s future at Red Bull Racing have gained momentum in recent weeks, with McLaren being pointed to as a possible destination. Nevertheless, the team’s CEO, Zak Brown, has repeatedly denied this possibility, while Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri hold long-term contracts.
During the MontoyAS podcast, the Colombian was direct when commenting on the possibility of Verstappen switching teams. For him, adapting to McLaren would be more complex than many imagine, especially in light of the structural changes surrounding the organization.
Part of the speculation involves Gianpiero Lambiase, Verstappen’s race engineer for several years, who is set to take the role of Chief Racing Officer at McLaren in 2028. Montoya, however, stressed that this function will be very different from the one he currently holds alongside the four-time champion.
“First of all, Gianpiero will not be a race engineer. He will hold a much higher position in 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 change will pose a major 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 does not happen overnight,” concluded the Colombian.
