Back to 2020, when McLaren was doubly hit by the corona crisis. The British sports car manufacturer was on the brink of collapse, not only because car sales took a big hit last year, but also because Formula 1 revenues were not forthcoming for months (due to the season that started later). McLaren has laid off a quarter of its staff and survived 2020 only through investments from new backers.
McLaren director Mike Flewitt has resigned
However, the financial pressure is still there. McLaren director Mike Flewitt – who became CEO eight years ago – resigned last month. It is not entirely clear why, but his departure is said to be related to the disappointing success of the McLaren GT and Elva. He would also be blamed for the problems with the development of the McLaren Artura. The introduction of the hybrid 570S successor has been delayed due to technical and quality issues.
Audi would be interested in the Formula 1 team
Multiple sources – including Coach, Automobile week on Reuters – now report that McLaren is in talks with other manufacturers about a takeover. Audi would be interested, even if the brand strongly denies that. It is known that the Volkswagen Group wants to return to Formula 1. And the easiest way is to take over an existing team: in this case McLaren.
BMW reportedly preys on the sports car branch
BMW, on the other hand, would be interested in McLaren’s sports car department. The German manufacturer from Munich – who also denies that anything is imminent – does not build super sports cars itself, so McLaren would be a nice addition to the portfolio. In the past, the parties have already worked together on the engine for the legendary McLaren F1, which is based on the BMW 8 series (E31).