In an era where Formula 1 is constantly adapting to new rules and technologies, one name continues to define the sport: Max Verstappen. Gianpiero Lambiase, Verstappen’s race engineer at Red Bull Racing, recently spoke strongly about the Dutch driver. During an interview with Sky Sports F1 ahead of the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix, Lambiase called Verstappen a “gentle giant” and insisted that the FIA should be grateful to him. “Without Max, Formula 1 in this era would be extremely boring,” he said, a statement that sparked both admiration and debate among fans and pundits.

Verstappen, a four-time world champion, has left an unparalleled mark on Formula 1 in recent years. Since his debut in 2015, he has broken records, dominated races, and set a new standard for what it means to be a racing driver. His aggressive driving style, combined with an unparalleled ability to find the car’s limits, has made him a crowd favorite, but also a controversial figure. Lambiase’s comments come at a time when Verstappen is under fire for his outspoken stance against the FIA, particularly regarding recent rule changes concerning language and penalty points.

Lambiase’s nickname “gentle giant” refers to Verstappen’s duality: an intimidating force on the track, yet an approachable personality off it. Fans know him as a driver who doesn’t mince his words, but also as someone who speaks passionately and humorously about his sport. His rivalries with drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris have produced epic moments, such as the thrilling battles in 2021 and the recent duels with McLaren in 2025. These rivalries have breathed new life into Formula 1, especially after a period of Mercedes dominance that had become predictable for many.

According to Lambiase, Verstappen not only won races but also elevated the sport. “Max draws viewers, he creates stories,” he said. “Without him, we wouldn’t have the excitement and drama that now characterize Formula 1.” This sentiment is shared by many fans, who point to the rising viewing figures since Verstappen’s arrival. In 2025, with a more competitive field that sees McLaren, Ferrari, and even Aston Martin closing in, Verstappen will remain the benchmark. His ability to rack up points, even in a less competitive Red Bull, underscores his value.

Yet not everyone agrees with Lambiase’s praise. Critics, including some former drivers, believe that Verstappen’s dominant performances and outspoken character sometimes polarize the sport. His clashes with the FIA, such as the recent controversy over a penalty for his language during a press conference, have led to discussions about his attitude. The FIA has introduced stricter rules, including a potential race ban for a maximum number of penalty points. Verstappen, who already has nine points on his superlicense, called these rules “ridiculous” and even threatened to leave the sport. Lambiase defended his driver: “Max speaks from the heart. The FIA should appreciate that, not punish it.”

Despite the controversies, Verstappen’s influence remains undeniable. In 2025, he leads the championship with 297 points after 14 races, 52 points ahead of Lando Norris. His victory at Zandvoort, in front of his home crowd, was an emotional highlight, with tens of thousands of orange fans chanting his name. But the season isn’t over yet. McLaren’s upgrades and Ferrari’s consistent performance make the battle more exciting than ever. Verstappen’s current teammate, Yuki Tsunoda, is struggling to score points, leaving Red Bull dependent on Verstappen to defend the Constructors’ Championship.

Lambiase’s words strike a broader chord: Verstappen is more than a driver; he’s a phenomenon who defines Formula 1. His rivalries, his records, and even his controversies have made the sport more accessible to a new generation of fans. Posts about his battles and pronouncements go viral on social media, and series like Drive to Survive have magnified his charisma. Yet Verstappen remains focused on winning, with a mentality that sets him apart. “I race to win, not to please,” he said after the Hungarian Grand Prix, where he finished second despite a strategic misstep.

For Red Bull, Verstappen is the team’s linchpin. Lambiase, who has worked with him since 2016, knows his driver like no other. Their radio exchanges, sometimes humorous, sometimes tense, have become legendary. “Max trusts us, and we trust him,” Lambiase said. This symbiosis has led Red Bull to three Constructors’ Championships, but the challenge remains to find a second driver who can keep pace with Verstappen. Until then, the burden rests on his shoulders.

As the 2025 season rages on, Verstappen’s legacy continues to grow. Whether you admire or criticize him, his impact is undeniable. Lambiase’s call for gratitude to the FIA reflects a broader truth: Verstappen has made Formula 1 more exciting, more human, and more unpredictable. With nine races remaining, the world awaits to see if he wins his fifth title. What is certain is that the “gentle giant” continues to shape the sport, race after race, with a passion that captivates fans and critics alike.