Ron Dennis steps down from F1 to focus on supercars

Ron Dennis hands over the baton to Martin Whitmarsh. He'll now be focusing on McLaren Automotive's new P11 and other road cars

By Tim Pollard

Motor Industry

16 January 2009 15:43

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.

CAR Online has led the world with its scoops on the new McLaren P11, a British alternative to the Ferrari 430 Scuderia. Click on the links to the left to see our amazing leaked images of the clay styling buck. The roadgoing P11 should hit the road in 2010.

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.'

By Tim Pollard