Former McLaren sporting director returns to Formula One with Manor

14 November 2015 08:17

Dave Ryan, the former McLaren sporting director, is to return to Formula One with Manor.

Ryan parted company with McLaren in 2009 amid charges of bringing the sport into disrepute after Lewis Hamilton claimed he was instructed to mislead the race stewards in Australia.

But the New Zealander will return as Manor's new racing director with immediate effect, and his appointment comes after Graeme Lowdon confirmed he would leave at the end of the season. Team principal John Booth is also to depart.

Manor, who will be powered by Mercedes next season, are said to be the subject of a takeover bid by American investors. The consortium led by Tavo Hellmund has reportedly opened dialogue with Manor's owner Stephen Fitzpatrick about acquiring a controlling stake in the team.

"I'm very excited to be joining the Manor Marussia F1 Team at a pivotal time in their development," said Ryan.

"Having spent time with Stephen, and understood his vision for the future, it is clear he has ensured there is a strong platform from which the team can make big steps forward in the seasons ahead.

"Manor has all the hallmarks of a fiercely competitive racing team, but having grown up in a much more contemporary Formula One era, it is a very lean operation with a collaborative culture, which leaves it well placed to contend with the sport's future direction.

"There is clearly a big challenge ahead and a lot of work to do, but I can't wait to meet the wider team and get down to business."

Fitzpatrick added: "I'm delighted to announce Dave's appointment in the newly created position of racing director. He needs no introduction, of course, having spent 34 years within the sport contributing to an incredible tally of race and championship wins.

"Along with our new Mercedes Benz power unit, technical partnership with Williams and recent additions to the design and technical team, Dave's arrival is another important step towards our goal of creating a truly competitive racing team.

"I am also able to confirm that John Booth and Graeme Lowdon will be leaving the team at the end of the current season.

"I have the utmost respect for them as individuals and for all they have achieved, both with this team and in their long careers in motorsport, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their hard work and dedication during this season in particular.

"Like every great story, there comes a time to start a new chapter."

Source: PA