Last Updated on April 28 2026, 12:21 am
Zak Brown dismisses Andrea Stella rumours following McLaren signing – The McLaren CEO dismissed speculation that the team’s principal, Andrea Stella, could leave following the signing of Gianpiero Lambiase. Brown called the claims “complete nonsense” and reaffirmed the team’s long-term commitment to its current leadership.
The rumours emerged after McLaren secured the services of Lambiase, best known as Max Verstappen’s long-time race engineer, as Chief Racing Officer from 2027. This prompted suggestions that Stella could be pushed out or tempted by a move to Ferrari.
Brown rejects speculation over Stella’s future
Brown moved quickly to shut down the narrative, insisting that there was no truth in suggestions of instability at McLaren.
“I can confirm that this is complete nonsense. A big part of our sport is that everyone likes to destabilise teams, but that doesn’t work here,” he told Sky Sports.
The American emphasised that Stella remains central to McLaren’s project, both now and in the future.
“Andrea is committed to McLaren and we are committed to him. We couldn’t be happier. You will see him in the McLaren racing team,” Brown added.
He further underlined the point by stating that there is “no chance” of Stella leaving the organisation.
Lambiase’s appointment sparks misinterpretation
Lambiase’s appointment has been widely viewed as a significant organisational change, with the Italian set to oversee McLaren’s racing operations.
However, Brown rejected the idea that this represents a shift in power away from Stella, describing it instead as a move driven by the team principal himself.
“Ultimately, it’s Andrea who hired him,” he explained.
The move is intended to bolster McLaren’s leadership rather than replace it, with Stella and Lambiase expected to collaborate closely once the latter joins.
Verstappen and Jos highlight the scale of McLaren’s offer
The deal has also attracted attention because of the size of McLaren’s offer, with information coming from Verstappen’s inner circle.
According to Jos Verstappen, McLaren presented Lambiase with a significantly improved package, including financial incentives and greater responsibility than he held at Red Bull.
Verstappen himself confirmed how attractive the proposal was:
“He told me what kind of offer he had received. I told him, ‘You’d be stupid not to accept it,’” he said.
The Dutch driver also described the offer as ‘fantastic’, suggesting that it had effectively secured Lambiase’s long-term future in the sport.
No Verstappen move despite speculation
Lambiase’s departure from Verstappen’s team has inevitably fuelled speculation about the reigning champion’s own future in Formula 1.
However, Brown made it clear that McLaren is not currently pursuing a move for the Dutchman.
Instead, Mercedes continues to be viewed as the most realistic alternative destination should Verstappen decide to leave Red Bull or the sport altogether.
For now, McLaren’s focus remains on stability, and Brown’s comments have made it clear that Stella’s position is secure, despite one of the most significant personnel signings in recent years.
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With over 30 years of experience in Formula 1 as an insider journalist, I have built trusted connections across the paddock, from race engineers and mechanics to senior team figures. At The Judge 13, I and a handful of trusted colleagues share exclusive Formula 1 news, expert analysis and behind-the-scenes stories you will not find in mainstream motorsport media.
