(Motorsports news) After Andres Seidl departed McLaren late last year to join Sauber and oversee the team’s transition to become the Audi works team in 2026, Stella assumed leadership of the F1 team. Stella oversaw McLaren’s significant ascent up the Formula One hierarchy in 2023 and made significant structural changes to the technical department responsible for car design. Brown stated that Stella had performed an “outstanding job” after being promoted to team principal in an exclusive interview.

“He has been fantastic,” Brown went on. “That is obviously about what has happened on the track but the culture that he has created, the way he has empowered people, the way he has got the most out of people, the leadership he is providing—he is a fantastic leader.” Brown said, “Yes, a lot. One of his greatest strengths is he is a great communicator,” in response to a question about instances in which Stella’s leadership helped McLaren.

Additionally, he solicits a wide range of opinions and has an excellent capacity to see things from their points of view. He is also a wonderful listener. “There is a talent for letting people do things their way; part of his method is to say, ‘I am not sure I would do it that way, but that is your job.’ He is a great communicator, leads by example.”

Additionally, Brown said that Stella’s reputation for thorough and patient media briefings in 2023 was a reflection of his status as a “people person. But don’t be mistaken by his soft demeanour, he is tough,” Brown stated. Fair, firm, and a leader by example. Andrea possesses all the traditional qualities you look for in a successful leader. He speaks clearly and concisely, which makes him an excellent communicator.

“Whether it is to the media [or anyone], he is clear and concise with the messages he delivers.”

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