McLaren Automotive has named Ian James, current director of NEOM McLaren Electric Racing and principal manager of the Formula E team, as its new competition director. James will now oversee GT racing programs for McLaren customers while maintaining his responsibilities for McLaren’s electric motorsport efforts, marking a significant expansion of his influence within the iconic brand.
A New Era for McLaren Automotive
James takes up the role as Mick McDonagh retires after more than four years at the helm of McLaren’s motorsport division. Under McDonagh’s leadership, McLaren managed to expand into the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and develop its McLaren Trophy championship. James will now take the reins, reporting directly to McLaren Automotive CEO Michael Leiters.
“In motorsport, we prove the performance and durability of our cars on the track and demonstrate to the world our racing pedigree,” said Leiters. “Ian’s experience and success in this area will accelerate our achievements. I would like to thank Mick for his dedication and leadership, which has been essential to our continued success.”
A Return to Familiar Ground
For James, this new role represents a return to his roots. Early in his career, he worked as a manufacturing engineer on the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren road car project from 2001 to 2005. Since then, he has made a name for himself in electric motorsport, leading Mercedes to victory in the Formula E championship before moving to McLaren’s Formula E team.
Now, as Director of Motorsport for McLaren Automotive, James will oversee all GT racing programs for customers, ensuring McLaren’s dominance on the track while enhancing its reputation in endurance racing and other racing series. high performance.
Redefining the Motorsport Division
In addition to James’ appointment, McLaren Automotive has restructured its management to support its motorsport ambitions:
- Rob Bella long-time McLaren factory driver, will take on the role of sporting director, managing racing activities and ensuring competitive success.
- Malcolm GerrishMcLaren’s Chief Engineer, will take on the role of Technical and Operations Director, focusing on engineering and logistics excellence.
Both Bell and Gerrish will report to James, creating a streamlined leadership structure aimed at improving collaboration across McLaren’s motorsport divisions.
Formula E and Beyond
Despite his expanded responsibilities, James will continue to lead McLaren Racing’s electric motorsport programs. The NEOM McLaren Formula E team begins its third season on December 7 in Sao Paulo, with a renewed driver line-up including Sam Bird and Taylor Barnard, who replaces Jake Hughes.
A Vision for the Future
As McLaren Automotive continues to push the boundaries on and off the track, James’ dual expertise in electric racing and customer GT programs makes him the ideal leader to navigate the evolving motorsport landscape. With a strengthened management team and a clear vision, McLaren aims to cement its legacy as a dominant force in endurance and electric racing.
The motorsport world now waits with bated breath to see how this reshaped leadership will guide McLaren’s quest for excellence in 2025 and beyond.
