Stoffel Vandoorne future secure despite Ron Dennis exit

Stoffel Vandoorne's Formula One future has been guaranteed, despite Ron Dennis' exit.

Dennis has brought in 2015 GP2 champion Vandoorne to replace Jenson Button next season, but his ousting has raised questions over the Belgian's future.


But Het Nieuwsblad journalist and commentator Gert Vermersch told Belgium's Sporza: "This will not affect Vandoorne.

"Stoffel came to McLaren because of other people as well," he insisted.

A big claim about Dennis is that his personality is the reason behind the shareholders' decision to axe him.

But Mika Hakkinen, who won the 1998 and 1999 world championships with McLaren has denied such claims.

"No, not at all," the Finn insisted. "I had a fantastic time. Without him, I wouldn't have been twice a world champion."

"He was a very tough leader for the drivers. He worked me very hard and my team mates. Ron was able to organise this very well. I believe he's a great leader.

"But generations change and people change and think a little bit differently these days," Hakkinen said.

Zak Brown is believed to be the favourite to replace Dennis, a move that Hakkinen would approve of.

"I know Zak personally and he's a fantastic guy," said Hakkinen, who won all 20 of his Grands Prix with McLaren. "He's a gentleman who definitely can motivate you for success."

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  • Team McLaren
  • Points 37
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  • Country GB
  • Date of b. Jan 19 1980 (46)
  • Place of b. Frome, Somerset, GB
  • Weight 72 kg
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