Schumacher predicts McLaren could swap Piastri for Verstappen
Summary
Former driver Ralf Schumacher claims McLaren could replace Oscar Piastri with Max Verstappen, linking the move to GianPiero Lambiase’s upcoming role. Teams affirm line‑ups, making the swap speculative.
Former driver Ralf Schumacher has floated a bold idea: McLaren could replace Oscar Piastri with four‑time champion Max Verstappen, tying the possibility to GianPiero Lambiase’s upcoming role at the team. Lambiase is set to join McLaren by 2028, the final year of Verstappen’s current Red Bull contract. Both McLaren and Red Bull have affirmed their driver line‑ups, leaving the swap in the realm of speculation.
Why it matters:
- A Verstappen move would reshape the midfield and intensify competition with Red Bull.
- The rumor highlights how engineering relationships can sway driver market dynamics.
The details:
- Lambiase, Verstappen’s long‑time engineer, will join McLaren by 2028, aligning with the end of Verstappen’s current Red Bull deal.
- Schumacher suggested Verstappen could quit Red Bull if he loses faith in the team, or follow Lambiase to McLaren.
- Piastri, under a contract through 2028, has praised McLaren’s long‑term vision, making an immediate swap unlikely.
What's next:
- McLaren is set to announce its 2028 driver lineup early next season, likely keeping Piastri.
- Verstappen’s future will become clearer after his Red Bull contract ends in 2028, but for now the swap remains speculation.
Original Article :https://www.planetf1.com/news/piastri-out-verstappen-in-mclaren-ralf-schumacher-...