McLaren puts ex-Porsche man Seidl in charge of F1!

McLaren Racing has appointed former Porsche WEC boss Andreas Seidl as the managing director of its Formula 1 team.

A disappointing 2018 season prompted the Woking-based outfit and CEO Zak Brown to undertake a series of management changes on several fronts.

Seidl's nomination is the latest step in the team's restructure and long term recovery plan. The German engineer enjoyed a very successful spell at the helm of Porsche's LMP1 squad, overseeing the manufacturer's success in the World Endurance Championship and at Le Mans.

Seidl is no stranger to Formula 1, having previously worked at BMW Motorsport from 2000 and 2006, then at BMW Sauber as head of track operations until 2009.

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"We are delighted that Andreas is joining McLaren to lead our F1 technical and operational programme," said McLaren boss Zak Brown.

"This is a significant appointment for us on two fronts.

"First, it is another important step in our F1 performance recovery plan and long-term commitment to F1.

"Second, concentrated senior leadership on our F1 programme is an integral part of the long-term strategy of McLaren Racing to expand into other forms of global motorsport over time.

"Andreas is a highly capable leader with a track record of success in everything he has been involved with, and I look forward to working with him."

©McLaren

Andreas Seidl is obviously delighted about his move to McLaren and the challenge it embodies.

"This is an enormous privilege and challenge, which I am ready for and committed to. To have an opportunity to contribute to the McLaren legacy is extremely special and inspiring.

"McLaren has the vision, leadership and experience but, most importantly, the people to return to the front, and that will be my absolute focus and mission.

"I can’t wait to join the team and begin working with my colleagues at McLaren, our partners at Renault and, of course, Carlos and Lando."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.