David Sanchez, Mclaren’s technical director, quit the team a few months after joining, right before the Japanese Grand Prix, resulting in Mclaren undergoing some major modifications before the race.
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During the winter, McLaren signed two people who completely rebuilt the team: Rob Marshall, an ex-Red Bull technician, and Sanchez, a former aerodynamics designer from Ferrari. The team has decided that Sanchez will be leaving as Technical Director of car Concept & Performance from McLaren after many discussions.
The team decided that Rob Marshall will be taking over as Chief Designer after Sanchez leaves, and Neil Houldey will become Technical Director of Engineering.
This further step in the evolution of the structure of the Technical Department and of the working model within the team signify our commitment to constantly enhancing our technical capabilities and workflows for greater efficiency and effectiveness, Stella says.
Until a new replacement is selected, Andre Stella, the technical head of performance, will be handling the job of the Concept and Performance department.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this team. 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 says.
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, Sanchez added.
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Fiza is a writer at The Sports Orbit, focusing on F1 coverage. She is currently pursuing her master’s in broadcasting journalism and has a profound love for motorsports. She finds F1 to be the most engaging among others due to its adrenaline rush. She got interested in the sport after watching an F1 race with her brother and uncle, and she’s been hooked ever since. Her favorite team is Mercedes and she is a fan of Lewis Hamilton. Besides her dedication to F1, she enjoys activities like reading, practicing her calligraphy skills, and experimenting with cooking.
