McLaren insist personnel changes not planned

Ian Parkes,Pa
Wednesday 20 July 2011 14:45 BST
Comments
Hamilton has been linked with a move to Red Bull
Hamilton has been linked with a move to Red Bull (PA)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

McLaren have confirmed they have no intention of breaking up their trio of figureheads in Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button and team principal Martin Whitmarsh.

The futures of world champion duo Hamilton and Button have been the source of considerable speculation of late due to their contract situations.

Hamilton has another year remaining beyond this season, although there are suggestions of a get-out clause at the end of this year.

As for Button, there is an option for next season, although due to the non-disclosure nature of the deal it is uncertain as to whether the 31-year-old or the team holds sway.

As for Whitmarsh, following a difficult British Grand Prix weekend, there have been suggestions his job is on the line, in particular due to the demands of his dual role as he also serves as chairman of the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA).

However, in defence of Whitmarsh, managing director Jonathan Neale said: "Martin has done a fantastic job for McLaren and FOTA.

"Up until last weekend we were the only ones putting up a credible fight against Red Bull."

Speaking in a Vodafone teleconference, Neale added: "I think a lot of people behind us on the grid, whilst they might be looking at the heat we get in the press, wouldn't mind a bit of the action we get.

"I'm afraid it's just part of the media circus and expectation, caught in the home grand prix if you've got to deliver and we didn't, you've got to expect a bit of comeback.

"But we want Martin, Lewis and Jenson here for the long term."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in