Max Verstappen’s trusted engineering team are set to remain intact for the 2025 Formula 1 season, despite earlier whispers of a shake-up.
Reports had suggested that Michael Manning, a key figure in the Dutchman’s inner circle, would step away from his role after the 2024 season.
However, Red Bull have confirmed that Manning will continue as control engineer, keeping the four-time world champion’s support squad unchanged.
Verstappen relies on a tight-knit group of four Red Bull engineers who work with him year-round. Leading the pack is Gianpiero Lambiase, the chief engineer, backed by Tom Hart, David Mart, and Manning. Together, they’ve been instrumental in Verstappen’s dominance, including his latest drivers’ title clinched in 2024.
Speculation had swirled that Manning, responsible for overseeing Verstappen’s critical race starts and system monitoring, was ready to shift to a new role within Red Bull. Sources had said he no longer wanted the demanding travel schedule of attending every race, hinting at a desire for fresh challenges.
But Red Bull have put those rumours to rest, telling RacingNews365 that Manning’s position as control engineer is secure for 2025.
Verstappen has often said he thrives with consistency, praising the stability of his engineering crew. “I like working with the same group,” he has said in the past. “It’s been a big part of our success.”
That formula has paid off handsomely, delivering four titles in recent years, and the 27-year-old is now chasing a fifth in 2025.
Manning’s role is no small task. He ensures Verstappen’s launches off the grid are flawless, a make-or-break moment in the opening laps of any grand prix.
With Red Bull sticking to their winning lineup, they’re banking on this continuity to keep them ahead in what’s shaping up to be a fiercely contested season. Several teams are tipped to challenge for the championship, promising a thrilling battle.
The 2025 season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix on March 16, where Verstappen and his Red Bull crew will tackle 58 laps of the 5.278-kilometre Albert Park circuit. For fans, it’s a relief to see the band staying together, because when this team hit the track, they mean business.
