Ron Dennis started his tenure at McLaren in 1980 and departed in 2017.
Ron Dennis admitted there were “significant disagreements” but has denied he was forced out of McLaren in 2017.
In 1980, Dennis, who had recently been knighted, joined McLaren and played a pivotal role in their most triumphant era. However, in 2017, he was eventually let go, with certain individuals suggesting that he was compelled to leave against his will.
Ron Dennis denies McLaren ousting but admits to ‘significant disagreements’
When the 2010s came around, Dennis’ authority within the team was diminishing as Martin Whitmarsh assumed the role of CEO in 2009. Additionally, the Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company held the majority ownership of the company.
In 1983, Mansour Ojjeh entered the scene, acquiring 50% ownership alongside Dennis. Towards the end of his tenure, Dennis acknowledged the presence of “significant disagreements” between him and his long-time ally.
“I didn’t leave under duress. I was 70 years old,” he clarified to the BBC. “My agreement with the company ended in January 2017.
“We did have some notable disagreements regarding my ambition to evolve into a technology company, owing to the fact that I had already established one.”
Ojjeh and other board members were primarily invested in Formula 1, despite our proven ability to successfully establish a remarkable car company and maintain a great technology division.
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“However, as I reflect on the company’s trajectory, I realize that my true purpose and guiding principle has always been focused on progress and staying true to my beliefs. When I realized that this vision would not be upheld upon my departure, it became crucial for me to seek a fair valuation for my shares. The dispute solely revolved around the worth of these shares, without any other underlying factors involved.”
Although Dennis acknowledged that things had become “a little scrappy at the end,” he emphasized that his 70th birthday played a significant role in his choice to relocate.
The 76-year-old expressed that although they still find joy in watching a grand prix, besides that, it is merely a relic of the past for them.
“The primary catalyst for my decision to change course was the approaching milestone of my 70th birthday. Towards the end, things became somewhat contentious, mostly due to a disagreement regarding the worth of my shares.”
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