Grapevine: Ramirez to Stay at McLaren for Now

Jo Ramirez has quashed reports that he has retired from his role as team co-ordinator at McLaren but said that he is reviewing his future with the team.

Ramirez, 59, was reported to have retired from the Woking-based team, but in a statement issued on Wednesday the Mexican said he will be with McLaren at the Australian Grand Prix on March 4.

"After nearly 40 years in the sport, mostly at McLaren, and not wishing to leave the wonderful and exciting life that I have had, there does come a time when you have to make room for younger blood," said Ramirez.

"Whilst I am discussing with my bosses about the best time for me to retire, I am looking forward to the start of the 2001 season which promises to be even better than the last two.

"Furthermore, we have to get the championship back where it belongs, so I will see you in Melbourne."

Ramirez is one of the most popular figures in the Formula One paddock and has worked at McLaren since 1983 after spells at Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, Ford and Tyrell.