APRIL 27, 2005

McLaren extends Newey contract - but for how long?

Adrian Newey has extended his contract with McLaren. The details of the contract are private information although a spokesperson for the team says that "we believe that his long-term future is with McLaren."

Adrian Newey has extended his contract with McLaren. The details of the contract are private information although a spokesperson for the team says that we believe that his long-term future is with McLaren.

Newey will remain as technical director but will pass on much of the work to others and will have a much more consultative role than previously. Paddy Lowe will be promoted to the role of engineering director overseeing vehicle design, aerodynamics, simulation and race engineering, while Nicholas Tombazis becomes vehicle project director.

Newey says that he wants to spend more time enjoying himself and intends to do more racing of his own. He is the owner of a Ford GT40 sports car and recently acquired a two-litre Abarth Spyder.

He is also considering a future in yacht racing.

The word on the street in Woking is that the new contract with McLaren is short but there may be a longer term deal to ensure that Newey is not hired to work for another team.