» As expected, Boullier joins McLaren

Eric Boullier's widely-expected appointment to McLaren has been announced

McLaren has announced that former Lotus team principal Eric Boullier will join its ranks with the title of Racing Director.

The Frenchman, credited with turning around Lotus’ fortunes in its post-Renault iteration, will report to a yet-to-be-hired CEO, who will report to the recently returned McLaren Group CEO, Ron Dennis.

A statement issued by the team – which made no mention at all of former Team Principal Martin Whitmarsh – confirmed the news, which was widely suspected given the timing of Lotus’ announcement of Boullier’s departure, coupled with this cheeky post from the team on its Twitter feed:

Exclusive behind the scenes pic of Eric Boullier’s leaving present. Something to read before the season starts… pic.twitter.com/j9dAE6eWG6

— Lotus F1 Team (@Lotus_F1Team) January 24, 2014

“Eric’s appointment is an integral part of a senior management restructure within McLaren Racing,” McLaren Group CEO Ron Dennis is quoted as saying.

“I’m firmly of the belief that, once McLaren Racing’s restructured senior management team has been assembled, together we’ll begin the march back to full competitiveness, quickly and professionally, harnessing the fantastic depth of talent that exists within our organisation.”

“First of all, I regard this appointment as an honour, a privilege and a wonderful opportunity,” Boullier added.

“The McLaren Racing workforce and the facilities at the McLaren Technology Centre are world-class, and I’m hugely excited about the prospect of joining such an outstanding team.

“I’m both eager and determined to play an active part, working alongside McLaren Racing’s other senior managers and directors, within a new operational structure, to bring about the changes that will deliver success. I’m utterly determined to match their famous passion and commitment to win.”

Image via Automoto