Silverstone boss steps aside, announces BRDC

Silverstone boss Patrick Allen has stepped aside from his position to be replaced by a permanent management team, the British Racing Drivers’ Club has announced.

Allen had been suspended since last month over the sale of the British Grand Prix home, following reports that he was “too close” to UK businessman and entrepreneur Lawrence Tomlinson, one of the bidders for the Northamptonshire venue.

Despite the British Grand Prix returning to profit for the first time in 10 years, the BRDC remains keen to sell the iconic track because of mounting losses and a lack of capital reserves.

“Patrick’s contract with the BRDC has always been on a consultancy basis, with the purpose of reinvigorating the customer proposition and establishing an effective long-term business strategy,” the Club said in a statement released on Tuesday.

“With these foundations now in place, permanency is required in Silverstone’s leadership to take that strategy forward.

“The BRDC Board fully acknowledges Patrick’s contribution to Silverstone Circuits Limited [SLC] and is pleased to have agreed terms to enable him to step aside and a new skilled team to continue to build on his success.”

Patrick Allen, who had taken over as Silverstone’s managing director in 2014, commented: “I have greatly enjoyed working at SCL. Some of you may have heard, or seen in the press, some rumours about my departure.

“It is true that some allegations were made against me but, for the avoidance of doubt, these have all been withdrawn and I am pleased to have concluded mutually agreeable terms with the BRDC.”

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