McLaren hire new boss as reshuffle goes on

McLaren have confirmed the appointment of Andreas Seidl as new managing director as the eight-time Formula 1 constructors' champions continue attempts to rebuild their former glories. Seidl moves to the Woking squad, having previously led Porsche's successful LMP1 programme.

Seidl will join McLaren during 2019, with James Key also set to start working as technical director midway through next season.

He has previous F1 experience with BMW and his appointment comes on the heels of Gil de Ferran and Andrea Stella being drafted in last year to aid McLaren's racing operations.

Seidl said: "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."

McLaren CEO Zak Brown added: "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."

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