Red Bull Racing has confirmed Tom Hart will assume the role of Max Verstappen’s race engineer starting from the 2027 Formula 1 season. This appointment follows the departure of long-serving engineer Gianpiero Lambiase. Hart’s promotion marks a significant change within Verstappen’s immediate operational team at Red Bull.
Gianpiero Lambiase, who has been Verstappen’s race engineer since his Red Bull debut in 2016, is set to transition to McLaren by 2028. Lambiase has also held the position of McLaren’s chief racing officer since 2025, indicating a planned move for some time.
Tom Hart has a substantial history with Red Bull Racing, having joined the team in 2012. He has worked closely with Verstappen, serving as his race engineer since 2020. This prior collaboration is seen as a foundational element for his upcoming role.
A Ziggo analyst reportedly views Verstappen’s selection of Hart as a logical progression. The analyst noted that Hart has been closely involved with the team and driver in a significant capacity for an extended period.
Reports indicated that Hart had previously accepted an offer from Williams to become Alex Albon’s race engineer from 2027. However, an enhanced position offered by Red Bull Racing convinced him to remain with the Milton Keynes outfit.
The change in Verstappen’s engineering team occurs amidst ongoing speculation regarding the four-time world champion’s future at Red Bull. Verstappen is currently under contract with the team until the end of the 2028 season.
Despite his contractual obligations, Red Bull’s performance during the current 2026 season has fueled discussions about potential exit clauses. Max Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, has addressed these rumours, stating Verstappen intends to fulfil his contract.
