Mercedes transfer "the proper alternative" for Verstappen after shedding key Pink Bull ally

Juan Pablo Montoya believes that now’s the “good alternative” for Mercedes to signal Max Verstappen, with Pink Bull struggling within the opening three races of the 2026 Method 1 season, and shedding Gianpiero Lambiase to rivals McLaren.

Lambiase is the newest Verstappen ally to announce his Pink Bull departure, with Helmut Marko stepping down from his function as Pink Bull motorsport advisor on the finish of 2025. 

This adopted different key strikes, with Will Courtenay and Rob Marshall each additionally transferring to McLaren, whereas Christian Horner, Jonathan Wheatley, and Adrian Newey have all both switched groups or left the paddock inside the final 24 months.

On high of those departures, and with Pink Bull struggling for efficiency and languishing in sixth within the constructors’ desk after three rounds, behind Alpine and Haas, and simply two factors away from sister staff Racing Bulls, questions have been raised as to how lengthy Verstappen will follow the staff.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff is a long-term admirer of the Dutchman and has beforehand tried to signal him. Montoya believes now may very well be the time to strike.

“Take a look at Mercedes. Kimi Antonelli has gained the final two races, however George Russell is instantly actually struggling,” he advised AS Columbia.

“And staff boss Toto Wolff has all the time stated very clearly that he desires Max in his staff. This might properly be the proper alternative for Verstappen.

“Pink Bull is on the slower aspect. In the event that they keep that approach all yr, Max will certainly be on the lookout for a approach out, for a approach to depart as quickly as attainable.” 

Pink Bull questioned over Lambiase departure

Lamibiase has served because the race engineer for four-time world champion Max Verstappen for the whole thing of the Dutchman’s time with Pink Bull, and was essential to every of his title-winning campaigns.

However this partnership will probably be damaged up for the 2028 season, with McLaren asserting on 9 April that Lambiase will probably be becoming a member of as chief racing officer, reporting on to staff principal Andrea Stella. It has additionally been recommended that the 45-year-old is being lined as much as finally substitute Stella within the high job.