Amid the beginnings of preseason testing, McLaren Racing announced that Former Lotus F1 Team Principal Eric Boullier has been appointed to the position of Racing Director, effective Monday, February 3rd.

Boullieris one of the most capable trackside leaders in Formula 1, playing the central role in the re-emergent success of Lotus F1 in the past two seasons. He brings with him extensive single-seater motorsport experience, having worked in senior positions in World Series by Nissan and A1 Grand Prix before moving up to Formula 1.

Working with Jonathan Neale (Chief Operating Officer) and his senior management colleagues within McLaren Racing, Eric will ultimately report to the Chief Executive Officer of McLaren Racing, an all-new position, whose yet-to-be-appointed occupant will in turn report directly to Ron Dennis (Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Group).

Until such time as a Chief Executive Officer of McLaren Racing has been appointed, Jonathan Neale will be acting in that role.

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

Recently re-appointed as McLaren's CEO of McLaren's F1 operations, Ron Dennis said, “Eric’s appointment is an integral part of a senior management restructure within McLaren Racing."

“I’ve already personally conveyed to the entire workforce of the McLaren Group, which includes McLaren Racing, the values, principles and mindset that I intend us all to adopt, going forward. My intention is that from now on everyone at McLaren Racing will understand their responsibilities and accountabilities, focusing on their specific areas of expertise, in keeping with those values, principles and mindset.

“In due course we’ll announce the identity of McLaren Racing’s new Chief Executive Officer, who’ll report to me, and to whom Eric will report.

Boullier's appointment adds to speculation surrounding the future of current Team Principal Martin Whitmarsh, who has been at the helm of McLaren's F1 program since 2009. Last season was McLaren's worst in recent memory, with many believing Boullier could step into his role if he was released.