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November 2008 - The Force India Formula One Team today announced
that it has ended its contract with Ferrari ahead of schedule, though
the agreement signed in 2007 provided for supply of engines in 2009.
Force India thanked 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 release from Force India.
Following
the announcement regarding the amicable termination of the Ferrari
contract, the Force India Formula One Team has taken yet another
step forward with its 2009 revamp plans added the release.
Force
India's senior management structure will be streamlined with immediate
effect. Dr Vijay Mallya will assume the responsibilities
of Team Principal in addition to his position as Chairman, to play
a greater role in the direction of the team, assisted by Robert
Fernley, Director of Force India. In a reorganisation of the team's
technical department, Mark Smith, design director, and James Key,
technical director, will share entire responsibility for the design
of the VJM02 and future cars.
As
a result of the restructure, Colin Kolles, Mike Gascoyne and Patrick
Missling, formerly corporate and business director, will no longer
form a direct part of the team's design, manufacture, race and test
operations.
Dr
Vijay Mallya commented, '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 reorganisation 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."
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