Following the surprise revelation that David Sanchez had quit McLaren just three months after joining, a new recruit, head of driver program Emanuele Pirro, also confirmed his departure.
As part of changes in McLaren’s senior technical team, it has been confirmed that Sanchez, who only started working as McLaren’s technical director of car concept and performance in January, has left the team after completing his gardening break after joining Ferrari. team. Now, Pirro also went outside.
Emanuele Pirro ready for ‘new challenge’ outside McLaren
Pirro didn’t stay at McLaren for long either, the former F1 racer and five-time Le Mans winner joined the company in April last year to oversee McLaren’s driver development program, and has since worked with various young racers. A major reorganization took place. .
But “after a year of hard work and satisfaction”, Pirro’s time at McLaren is over.
Recommended by PlanetF1.com
5 big questions about the Japanese GP: Red Bull upgrade, Sargent’s return, Perez’s big moment?
7 must-see F1 weekends to complete your 2024 bucket list – how to get there as cheaply as possible
In an Instagram post confirming the news, Pirro wrote: “After a year of hard work and satisfaction, I am leaving McLaren’s driver development program.
“Working with the F1 team, I have been able to put in place a structure to develop young, talented and hard-working drivers into future McLaren champions.
“I have scouted and signed young stars who I truly feel can fulfill this mission to the best of their ability and make history.
“The in-house resources that run DDP continue my path, helping the program grow and providing the type of unique support needed for driver development, along with the professionalism and experience of the entire great team they represent. I believe that you will.
“I have tried my best to pass on the lessons I have learned and the mistakes I have made in my motorsport life, but now I have stepped aside and let the program take its own course and take advantage of the opportunities presented to me. Thank you very much.
“I pray for Gabriel’s soul.” [Bortoleto]Hugo [Ugochukwu]Bianca [Bustamante]pato [O’Ward],fishing [Hirakawa] and brand [Badoer], with future drivers with whom collaboration has already begun. Thanks to you and all of our competitors, the future of the sport I love is secure. I am now ready for a new challenge…”
As part of McLaren’s reshuffle announced alongside Sanchez’s departure, former Red Bull stalwart Rob Marshall, who also joined in January, will move into the role of chief designer, while Neil Holdie is confirmed to become technical director of engineering. It was done.
Peter Prodromou will continue as technical director of aerodynamics, while team principal Andrea Stella has been appointed to the restructured technical director performance role on an interim basis while McLaren seeks a permanent appointment. He took office.
Read next – Commentary: What McLaren’s cold press release reveals after big-name player’s sudden departure
