One of the main technical signings for McLaren in the 2024 Formula 1 season, David Sanchez, has left the team just three months after starting his role. Sanchez, who previously worked for Ferrari, was signed by McLaren in February 2023 but could not begin work until January 2024 due to his gardening leave. He joined McLaren as one of their three technical directors, responsible for the car concept and performance, under the leadership of team principal Andrea Stella. However, just three months into his role, McLaren announced Sanchez’s departure from the team in a surprising statement on Tuesday. Stella described the move as a “further step in the evolution of the technical department” and referred to the decision as mutual. He explained that upon reflection, it became clear that the expectations for Sanchez’s position did not align with the reality, leading to the decision to part ways. Despite the departure, McLaren expressed gratitude for Sanchez’s contributions and wished him well in his future endeavors. Sanchez also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity and his respect for the team, despite the misalignment between the envisioned role and the actual position. He stated that he looks forward to his next challenge within F1. Following Sanchez’s departure, McLaren has introduced a revised technical leadership structure. Rob Marshall, who was previously the technical director for engineering and design, has now become the chief designer. Neil Houldey has taken on Marshall’s former role as the technical director of engineering, and Andrea Stella will temporarily assume Sanchez’s former duties as the technical director of performance. The role of technical director of performance no longer includes the car concept element. Peter Prodromou remains as the technical director of aerodynamics.
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