McLaren-Mercedes have promoted Dave Ryan, the team’s long-standing Race Team Manager, to the position of Sporting Director.
The 54-year-old New Zealander, who joined McLaren as a mechanic in 1974 and worked his way up to the position of Race Team Manager, will take on new duties with the team in recognition of his commitment and achievements.
“Given his stature within the team, and the commitment he shows to his role, we thought the new title of sporting director best reflected the progressive evolution of Davey’s responsibilities within McLaren,” said McLaren CEO Martin Whitmarsh.
“Dave has been hugely committed to this team, he joined McLaren in 1974 – and has played a central role in developing the race team into what it is today.”
“We all appreciate Davey’s contribution: he’s loyal, forthright and fearlessly hard working. In fact, he’s pivotal to the way we go racing each weekend and thoroughly deserves to take on this broader role.”
“But while his duties expand, he still remains our conduit to the wider world of F1 and will continue to attend the regular team managers’ meetings.”
