McLaren & Jaguar Settle Newey Case Amicably

The McLaren and Jaguar team announced on Wednesday they have reached an "amicable resolution in respect of the future employment of Adrian Newey, who will remain at McLaren." The settlement was today presented to and approved in the High Court in London.

Jaguar had claimed that Newey had signed a legally binding contract with them, and later on announced that they had secured an injunction to restrain McLaren from renewing Newey's when it expired in August 2002.

However, a statement released on Wednesday by McLaren confirmed both teams have reached an agreement by which the technical director will stay with the Woking-based team:

Jaguar Racing and McLaren are pleased to announce an amicable resolution in respect of the future employment of Adrian Newey, who will remain at McLaren. This settlement was today presented to and approved by Mr Justice Eady in the High Court in London.

McLaren and Jaguar Racing are very pleased that this matter has been quickly resolved in a professional and courteous manner. McLaren acknowledges that Jaguar Racing has acted in good faith throughout. The relationship between Jaguar Racing and McLaren has always been a good one and has not been damaged by this matter. Jaguar Racing now understands the circumstances in which the confusion between McLaren and Adrian Newey arose and has therefore decided to accept McLaren's apologies over this matter.

Ron Dennis, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the TAG McLaren Group: "I would like to apologise for any misunderstanding that has been caused over what has become a confused and complex affair. I am sure that in future, our relationship will be an excellent one and that our rivalries will be confined to on-track competition."

Adrian Newey, Technical Director, McLaren International: " I regret that this matter has occurred but I am delighted that it has now been resolved. I apologise for any difficulties that have been caused. I am sure that we will all now put this matter behind us and concentrate on our common passion for motor racing."

Niki Lauda, Chairman of Premier Performance Division: " I am glad that this matter has been concluded and it is gracious of Ron and Adrian to each offer an apology which are fully accepted by Jaguar Racing which is part of the Premier Performance Division."