Dennis resigns from his position at McLaren

McLaren boss, Ron Dennis, will leave his role as team principal before the start of the 2009 season. He announced this himself on Friday.

However, the 61-year-old Briton clarified that he is not retiring, but will focus on other commitments related to the McLaren Group.

Dennis indicated that he would still attend a few races but intends to hand over his responsibilities to Martin Whitmarsh on March 1st.

« The first thing I’m going to do is work hard, » said Dennis at the launch of the new McLaren.

« I intend to lift my team, because I believe that everyone in our organization at all levels must work, due to the difficult period Formula 1 is experiencing. »

We intend to consider our production program as a challenge.

« I’m not stressed about missing a victory, but it’s time for Martin to take over the team. Starting March 1st, he will take on this responsibility. I’ll still go to see races because I’m passionate about them, » continued Ron Dennis.

« I intend to work hard and take on this great responsibility within the Group. I will be the full-time executive chairman. My decision is 100% certain. This is what I want to do. »

« I don’t want to see myself in retirement, I want to work harder in other areas and these tasks cannot be accomplished in my position as team manager of McLaren F1 because the GP schedule disrupts the process.