Gianpiero Lambiase discussed his ‘subservient’ role as Verstappen’s engineer, significantly aiding their win at the Brazilian GP. Their approach focused on damage limitation amid challenging conditions. Key moments, including tire strategy and maintaining communication, were integral to their successful outcome.
Gianpiero Lambiase, race engineer for Max Verstappen, shared insights on how a “subservient” communication style contributed to Verstappen’s victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix. Their relationship is dynamic, with Lambiase adjusting his approach based on the racing situation to effectively guide Verstappen at high speeds.
During the Brazilian GP, which saw Verstappen starting from 17th due to a red flag incident, Lambiase emphasized that their strategy was primarily for damage limitation, considering that competitors like Lando Norris were in a position to gain significant points. Wet conditions played a crucial role, and the team leveraged Verstappen’s exceptional driving skills.
Lambiase highlighted a pivotal race moment when Verstappen opted to remain on intermediate tires while competitors pitted, allowing him to gain track position. Solid communication about track conditions and tire performance was essential in making strategic choices that ultimately led to their victory.
Lambiase noted the importance of staying calm under pressure, asserting that their chosen strategy was not to pit for fresh tires when others did. This decision, driven by an understanding of tire dynamics and race conditions, was a significant factor in their championship success in Brazil.
The relationship between a driver and their engineer is critical in Formula 1, impacting race outcomes significantly. Communication styles can vary based on the driver’s needs and race conditions. Understanding how to adapt to high-stress situations is essential for engineers to relay vital information effectively.
The Brazilian Grand Prix exemplified how adapting communication and strategic decision-making can lead to success in high-pressure environments. Lambiase’s ‘subservient’ approach to working with Verstappen showcased the importance of understanding the driver’s capabilities, making timely decisions, and maintaining composure during races.
Original Source: www.motorsport.com
