McLaren Mercedes team principal Ron Dennis is to step down as boss of the F1 team to concentrate on McLaren’s other interests – including McLaren Automotive, which is planning a range of new top-end sports cars.
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Chief operating office Martin Whitmarsh will take over the helm of the grand prix outfit from Dennis on 1 March 2009.
Dennis said: ‘Let me make one thing clear: this is very definitely not retirement. In fact, I intend to work even harder from now on… I intend to work even harder on growing the McLaren Group, which encompasses McLaren Automotive.’
He will, however, continue to follow the progress of F1 champ Lewis Hamilton, whom he introduced to the world of global motorsport at a young age.
‘I still intend to go to some, but not all, grands prix because I remain a diehard enthusiast. Motor racing is in my blood – and nothing will dilute my passion for either the sport or the success of this company.’