Ron Dennis will be present at the majority of the 2009 races

Ron Dennis, who resigned from his position as McLaren director about two weeks ago, will attend most, if not all, of the Grand Prix this new season.

Dennis announced during the launch of the 2009 McLaren version that he would step down from his role as team principal on March 1st, leaving his position to McLaren’s F1 managing director, Martin Whitmarsh.

But the Briton still intends to attend most of the races: “I will participate in most, if not all, of the Grand Prix of the upcoming season, and this for two reasons,” he stated on the official Formula 1 website.

« The first reason is that I will have work to do during the Grand Prix as an influential member of FOTA and as Chairman and CEO of McLaren Group. »

« The second reason is that I continue to love this sport from the depths of my being. So, yes, I will be in Melbourne for the 2009 Australian Grand Prix. »

Despite his decision to resign, Dennis reaffirmed that he will not have less work than before.

« After March 1st, when the reshuffle takes effect, I expect to work harder than ever, » added the Briton.

« I will focus on the direction and culture of McLaren Group, which includes over 1,300 employees and of which I will be the chairman and CEO. »

That said, I am delighted to have been able to pass on my former role as team principal to Martin, because he deserves it. I have immense confidence in him and in all our staff.

« Martin and I have worked very closely together over the past 20 years, and we will continue this relationship, together and in the same way, throughout 2009 and beyond. »