Formula 1: Paddy Lowe named as technical director for McLaren-Mercedes
Paddy Lowe has been named as the technical director for McLaren-Mercedes for the 2011 Formula 1 season.
By naming Lowe as the technical director of the team, the team’s chief engineer Tim Goss will become the director of engineering for the team. Both Goss and Lowe will join Neil Oatley, who is the director of design and development of the McLaren team in
order to develop a strong car for the 2011 season.
Lowe stated, “With the three of us, we'll not only be able to more efficiently spread our workload, but, through Tim & me, we'll also share race attendance.”
He further added, “It's very important to have senior technical management at the racetrack, because that's where you score the points, but, equally, if you spend all your time away then you risk overlooking some of the hard work that happens back at the
factory.”
Goss was also looking forward to his role he can play for his team and said, “As director of engineering, my role will be to co-ordinate a small team of project engineers who are responsible for the specification, design and development of our cars.”
McLaren had a strong 2010 season with both its drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button going for the titles. However, the team did not manage to win any title as the season was dominated by Red Bull.
McLaren have the advantage of the F-ducts which they introduced to help their drivers in overtaking manoeuvres but the technology will be banned in the new season.
Even though there will be no F-ducts in 2011, the team remained committed that they will come up with something innovative and will be a strong contender for both the drivers’ and the constructors’ championship again.
McLaren will be launching their new car for the 2011 season on 4 February. The drivers and the team have vowed to be stronger for the new season but only time will tell what they are capable of.
A strong competition is expected amongst McLaren, Ferrari and Red Bull for the season just like 2010. However, McLaren have the advantage of having two former Formula 1 champions with them unlike any other team, which might go in their favour.
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