autoevolution
 

Force India Part Ways with Ferrari, Reorganize Team

Force India will begin next season with a completely different team and engine partner as compared to their rookie year. Although Vijay Mallya's team is yet to announce an engine partner for the upcoming season – that would provide the Silverstone-based team not only with an engine but also a reliable gearbox and KERS unit – the Indian outfit have officially terminated their collaboration with Ferrari.

“The Force India Formula One Team today announces that it has ended its contract with Ferrari. The agreement signed in 2007 also provided for a supply of engines in 2009, but will now terminate ahead of schedule at the request of Force India. Force India wishes to thank Ferrari for its much appreciated and valued support to date, which has always been carried out at the highest level; technically and professionally and within an excellent relationship,” said a statement from Force India earlier today.

Not only Force India will be entering the new season with a new power train supplier – most likely McLaren Mercedes – but Vijay Mallya will also take over the managing responsibilities of Colin Kolles and Mike Gascoyne. The two will officially part ways with the Indian outfit before the winter testing.

“Force India is my most difficult project to date and it has become clear that it requires more direct input from my side and greater performance accountability. We have come a long way this season, but we need more and that requires some radical reorganization of the management structure to ensure the maximum productivity.”

“I would like to thank Colin Kolles for his tireless efforts in keeping such a small team alive and to Mike Gascoyne for bringing his wealth of technical expertise. Both have played an instrumental part in making the team what it is today. On Monday November 10th, I will announce the new technical direction of the team as well as the appointment of a new Chief Operating Officer who will assume overall responsibility for our Silverstone and Brackley facilities, Race and Test operations,” confirmed Mallya soon after announcing team's decision to part ways with Ferrari.

The men likely to assist Mallya on running the team next year are Robert Fernley, team's director, Mark Smith, design director, and James Key, technical director.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories