McLaren expect James Key move in time for 2019 influence

McLaren is expecting the arrival of James Key from Toro Rosso to be completed in time for the highly-rated technical head to have input on the 2019 McLaren car. Toro Rosso had denied the claims Key was leaving the team and insisted he would be remaining at the team until his contract expired.

Despite not finalising and announcing the official arrival of Key to the team, Brown insisted that the new hiring would be in place to have input on the 2019 and 2020 cars despite the lack of confirmation.

Brown told reporters he was confident that a deal would be announced sooner rather than later and added that the development of next seasons car was the target for the team.

“With James Key we are in active discussions and I would characterise those discussions towards the end of coming to a positive conclusion for all parties,” Brown said.

“I anticipate, as I’ve said before, in sufficient time next year to help influence the progress of next year’s car and ultimately the development of 2020.

“I would anticipate being able to share something early in the new year.”

Key is yet another new hiring by McLaren as the team look to get back on top of their F1 programme after a dismal period in which the team have slumped to the bottom half of the grid.

Rumours are currently circulating that the team is also in contact with Fernando Alonso about testing the 2019 car ahead of the new season. The Spaniard retired from Formula One after the end of the 2018 season but having the two-time champion back could prove crucial to the progress of the new project.