UpdateF1 >> Formula 1 News > Force India-Ferrari split

Path clear for McLaren deal

Force India and Ferrari have bought a premature end to their partnership, thus clearing the way for the Silverstone based Force India team to move ahead with a planned Mclaren-Mercedes deal that we understand will involve the supply of a complete drive train, and possibly extend to a customer chassis deal.

The news was not unexpected as Force India chief Vijay Mallya has previously indicated he was looking to compensate Ferrari for any development expenses they may have incurred in relation to the 2009 engine supply.

A statement read:

"The Force India Formula One Team today announces that it has ended its contract with Ferrari. The agreement signed in 2007 also provided for a supply of engines in 2009, but will now terminate ahead of schedule at the request of Force India.

"Force India wishes to thank Ferrari for its much appreciated and valued support to date, which has always been carried out at the highest level; technically and professionally and within an excellent relationship."

It is believed that Force India had been concerned at Ferrari’s indecision with regard to the running of a KERS device in 2009, and that the Mclaren-Mercedes deal encompasses a greater level of technical back up and support.

As well as the news of the Ferrari split, Force India has also announced the departure from the team of both Colin Kolles, Team Principal, and Chief Technical Officer Mike Gascoyne, a man held in high regard in F1 circles and largely responsible for the improvements in the team this season.

The departure of Gascoyne, especially, points to a greater technical involvement from McLaren, which may have led him to believe his position no longer tenable at the team.

Vijay Mallya will take overall control of the running of the team, assisted by Robert Fernley, while Mark Smith and James Key will be responsible for the design side of the operation.
On the latest news Mallya said:

"Force India is my most difficult project to date and it has become clear that it requires more direct input from my side and greater performance accountability.

"We have come a long way this season, but we need more and that requires some radical reorganisation of the management structure to ensure the maximum productivity.

"I would like to thank Colin Kolles for his tireless efforts in keeping such a small team alive and to Mike Gascoyne for bringing his wealth of technical expertise. Both have played an instrumental part in making the team what it is today.

"On Monday November 10th, I will announce the new technical direction of the team as well as the appointment of a new Chief Operating Officer who will assume overall responsibility for our Silverstone and Brackley facilities, Race and Test operations."

On the driver front Mallya recently confirmed that both Adrian Sutil and Giancarlo Fisichella will be retained, although whispers continue to suggest that Sutil may not be a certainty as Mclaren are rumoured to want Paul di Resta, a Mclaren-Mercedes driver, in the car.

Written: Fri, 07 Nov 2008 15:01:05