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McLaren executive director Zak Brown has played down reports that Apple or a rumours Chinese consortium are set to purchase the team.
McLaren has been linked with a sale for a number of months, but Brown, who came on board at the end of last year isn't willing to expand on the possibility.
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"That's for the shareholders to decide," Brown is quoted by AutoWeek. "(At the same time), I would not be surprised to be sitting in a McLaren uniform at a Grand Prix 10 years from now."
He is also unwilling to be drawn into discussions over Ron Dennis' exit from the team last year after decades at the helm of the company.
"There's trouble between (them)," Brown told the Financial Times. "It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that out. I've deliberately kept my space and know that what all shareholders want are world championships."
It is thought that top teams spent around $100 million more than McLaren in 2016, and Brown expects to draw upon his sponsorship experience to cover the shortfall.
"I definitely would be shocked if I didn't have some commercial contribution in 2017," Brown said.
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Replies (3)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Apple has already confirmed that they once intended to buy it but wont. As for the Chinese company, anything is possible. Only problem is whether it'll be just shares or the entire team, and if it is shares, which party will sell them?
boudy
Posts: 1,168
I think that Apple are only interested in parts of the company, namely the devision that handles the car testing etc. This is to support their electric car. I don't believe that Apple wants to commit to F1.
The chinese takeover was arranged by Ron; can't see that happening either unless the other shareholders want out. However it's not all over yet for Ron since mr Brown is very political about Ron and he does still own part of mcLaren.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Yeah, but if I remember correctly Apple scrapped the plans for their car late 2016, so I dont think its down to that anymore, if they still are interested that is.
I agree, I dont think its likely for those Chinese investors to go in without Dennis.