McLaren Announces Key Signing Amid Ricciardo Return Rumors
McLaren Racing has announced a major addition to its leadership team as the 2025 Formula 1 season approaches. The reigning constructors’ champions, who triumphed over rivals Ferrari and Red Bull to claim the 2024 title, are taking proactive steps to maintain their dominance.
In a significant move, McLaren has appointed former Sauber team executive Alessandro Alunni Bravi to the newly created position of Chief Business Affairs Officer. This announcement follows closely on the heels of the news that Bravi would be departing Sauber, marking a fresh chapter for the Italian motorsport veteran.
Bravi’s New Role at McLaren
McLaren issued an official statement confirming Bravi’s appointment and outlining the scope of his responsibilities. The role will involve providing leadership across various business matters within McLaren Racing. CEO Zak Brown expressed his excitement about the addition, emphasizing Bravi’s extensive experience and deep understanding of motorsport operations.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Alessandro to the McLaren Racing family,” said Brown. “His vast expertise and background in motorsport make him a valuable asset to our team. In addition to overseeing our legal and driver development functions, he will offer critical support in managing professional driver business affairs, racing governance activities with our rights holders and governing bodies, and broader business matters across our racing series.”
Brown emphasized that Bravi’s appointment reflects McLaren’s commitment to strengthening its operational framework as the team aims to maintain its competitive edge. The role, according to Brown, is tailored to meet the evolving needs of McLaren Racing across its expanding motorsport portfolio.
Bravi’s Perspective
Alessandro Alunni Bravi shared his enthusiasm for the new role, calling it a dream come true. “McLaren is a team I have admired my entire life, and joining such an iconic organization is a truly special moment for me,” Bravi said. “The opportunity to collaborate with such an extraordinary group of people fills me with immense pride and excitement.”
Bravi is set to officially join the McLaren team in February, bringing with him years of experience in team management and motorsport governance. His appointment underscores McLaren’s ambition to remain at the forefront of Formula 1 and other racing disciplines.
McLaren’s Momentum
Having secured the 2024 constructors’ title, McLaren is clearly not resting on its laurels. The team is leveraging its success to reinforce its operations, ensuring it remains a top contender in the highly competitive Formula 1 grid.
Bravi’s arrival coincides with ongoing speculation about Daniel Ricciardo potentially returning to McLaren in some capacity. While no official announcements have been made regarding Ricciardo, his name continues to circulate in the paddock, adding further intrigue to McLaren’s preparations for the 2025 season.
As McLaren looks ahead, the addition of Bravi signals a strategic focus on bolstering its business and racing operations. With the season just around the corner, fans and rivals alike will be watching closely to see how McLaren continues to build on its championship-winning momentum.
