McLaren has announced organizational changes to its technical executive team, with recent recruit David Sanchez who was in charge of car concept and performance leaving the Woking-based outfit after just three months.
A long-standing designer and head of vehicle concept at Ferrari, Sanchez’s move to McLaren was announced a year ago and became effective on January 1 of this year following the Frenchman’s mandated period of gardening leave.
However, it appears that Sanchez did not find at McLaren the duties and responsibilities that had been initially agreed upon with team papaya.
“While the role we envisioned and had agreed to was not aligned with the reality of the position I found, I leave with respect for the leadership, admiration for the dedication of my colleagues, and appreciation for the openness and honesty in which we discussed and arrived at this decision,” Sanchez commented in McLaren’s statement.
“I wish this team continued success as it continues its journey to the front of the grid where it belongs. I look forward to my next challenge within F1.”
McLaren’s changes see Rob Marshall assume the role of Chief Designer, while Neil Houldey has been appointed Technical Director - Engineering. Peter Prodromou will continue in his role as Technical Director – Aerodynamics.
McLaren says the Concept and Performance department previously helmed by Sanchez will be streamlined to focus on Performance and will be led by the Technical Director – Performance.
McLaren F1 boss Andrea Stella will assume this role in the interim until a permanent appointment is confirmed.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella with McLaren Racing boss Zak Brown.
“Following thoughtful discussions between David Sanchez and the Team Leadership, the mutual decision has been taken for David to leave the team,” said Stella.
“Upon our joint reflection, it became apparent that the role, responsibilities, and ambitions associated with David’s position did not align with our original expectations when he agreed to join us in February 2023.
“Recognising this misalignment, both David and I agreed that it would be best to part ways now, so to enable him to pursue other opportunities that will better leverage the full scale and breadth of his remarkable skillset.
“We greatly and gratefully value the contributions that David has made during his relatively short time with us, and we wish him the best in his future endeavours.”
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