McLaren Automotive Announces New Director of Motorsport
McLaren Automotive has announced the appointment of Ian James as its new Director of Motorsport, effective December 1, 2024. In this role, Ian will oversee all GT products and customer racing activities at McLaren and report directly to CEO Michael Leiters.
Ian James joined McLaren in 2022, initially serving as Managing Director of NEOM McLaren Electric Racing and Team Principal of the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team. He also took charge of the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team. His return to McLaren signalled a full-circle moment in his career, starting as a Manufacturing Engineer on the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren programme from 2001 to 2005.
Ian will maintain his responsibilities with the Formula E team while taking on his new role at McLaren Automotive Motorsport. His leadership will enhance the strategic connection between McLaren Automotive and its Racing divisions, which compete in Formula 1, the World Endurance, the Formula E World Championships, and Indycar in the USA.
He succeeds Mick McDonagh, retiring after more than four years with McLaren Automotive. Mick has been a critical figure at McLaren, notably steering the company's entry into the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) with racing partner United Autosports. He will facilitate a smooth leadership transition.
This appointment aligns with McLaren and United Autosports' renewed commitment to continue participating in the WEC for the 2025 season, pending official entry confirmations, following a historic campaign that included a return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Additionally, McLaren Motorsport has created two new leadership positions. Factory Driver Rob Bell will assume the role of Sporting Director, and Chief Engineer Malcolm Gerrish will take on the Technical and Operations Director role, reporting to Ian James.
Michael Leiters, CEO of McLaren Automotive, enthusiastically welcomed Ian’s appointment: “Ian's extensive experience and proven success are invaluable as we aim to enhance collaboration across our Racing and Automotive divisions. In Motorsport, we demonstrate the performance and durability of our cars, showcasing our racing pedigree to the world. Ian’s leadership will undoubtedly accelerate our achievements."
Leiters also expressed his gratitude to Mick McDonagh for his dedication and pivotal role in leading McLaren’s motorsport initiatives, which have been crucial to the brand’s continued success.
