P1racenews AI automatic summary:
One of McLaren’s major 2024 Formula 1 technical signings from Ferrari, David Sanchez, has already departed the team just three months into starting his role
David Sanchez, one of McLaren’s key 2024 Formula 1 technical recruits, left the team only three months after assuming his position. Despite being hired in February 2023, his start date was delayed until January 2024 due to a gardening leave from his previous employer Ferrari. As a McLaren technical director overseeing car concept and performance, Sanchez worked under team principal Andrea Stella’s new technical leadership structure. However, McLaren announced Sanchez’s unexpected departure in January 2024, terming it a mutual decision driven by misaligned expectations.
Following Sanchez’s exit, McLaren reshuffled its technical leadership, with Rob Marshall becoming the chief designer, Neil Houldey moving up to technical director of engineering, and Stella taking over Sanchez’s role as technical director of performance. Peter Prodromou remains the technical director of aerodynamics. Despite the sudden change, both McLaren and Sanchez expressed mutual respect and goodwill, highlighting the need for alignment in roles and responsibilities. Sanchez departed with gratitude and best wishes for the team’s success, aiming to pursue future opportunities within Formula 1.
