Lotus: Olivier Quesnel confirms contacts and his interest in the position
Announced as a potential replacement for Eric Boullier in recent days, Olivier Quesnel confirmed that he had been contacted and, moreover, that he was very interested in the Lotus challenge, if he were chosen.
For a few days, it appears that Olivier Quesnel, former director of competition at Citroën in rally and at Peugeot in Endurance racing, is a favorite to take over Eric Boullier’s position at Lotus F1. At 64, Quesnel has never had any experience in F1, but that could change if Lotus and Gérard Lopez do indeed call on him.
Indeed, when questioned by our colleagues at Infosport+, the Frenchman indicated that the offer he received from Gérard Lopez was one that was hard to refuse: « Actually, I am in contact with Gerard Lopez (..). There’s a chance, but as of now, I haven’t signed anything. After Rally and Endurance, F1 can’t leave me indifferent. As for me, I’m interested. »
He also reflected on his relationship with the owner of the Lotus team: « With Gérard Lopez, since we first crossed paths 4 years ago, we always had the idea of doing something together. Today, the opportunity has arisen and Gérard remembered that. In some way, what I represent must align with what he expects from a sports manager ».
Gérard Lopez, moreover, insisted on clarifying, once again on the show “+ de F1” on Infosport + that nothing was decided and that Olivier Quesnel’s interest is not enough to offer him the position: « We have a list of 3 candidates with whom we are discussing, but nothing is decided. The only thing I cannot hide from you is that Olivier Quesnel is part of this list ». However, he acknowledges that the timing is tight: « We need to make a decision quickly because we have things to prepare, at the latest within a week, ten days. »
When asked about the Ross Brawn track, the Luxembourger dismissed the question: « It would have been interesting to have a serious discussion with Ross Brawn, but it never materialized. »
