Buzzin F1 – Formula One Blog

Ron Dennis

It was announced today at the launch of the new McLaren MP4-24, that team principle Ron Dennis is stepping down and passing the role to Martin Whitmarsh from March 1st.

Dennis said,

“First thing I am going to do is work harder, that is the first target.

I intend to raise my own game because I think everybody in our organisation at every level realises this is a tough period in which we are going to work and of course we are a very diverse organisation now.

We have a clear intention for our production car programme which is really a challenge.  Any product we bring to the market will certainly fall the other of this financial period.

I stress nothing to get excited about but it is absolutely time for Martin to take over as team principle.  As from March 1 he will adopt the responsibility.  I will still go to races, not all of them, because I am passionate.

I intend to work harder and will take on greater responsibility in the group.  I will be full executive chairman.  It is time and I have to say it is absolutely 100 percent my decision.  It is what I want to do, but I do intend to work harder.

Don’t see it as some sort of retirement, I want to work harder in other areas and having to plan those tasks around the GP calendar is disruptive to the process.  It is a job that Martin will embrace and enjoy.

It is a job over the years we have shared anyway, but it will be his decision to influence things at a grand prix circuit.”