Vandoorne not retained by McLaren in 2019

The rumor had been circulating for many weeks, it took official form Monday noon the day after the Italian Grand Prix: Stoffel Vandoorne will not wear the colors of McLaren en Formula 1 in 2019.

McLaren today confirms that Stoffel Vandoorne will leave the team after the end of the 2018 season. https://t.co/yIQonPAnwj

- McLaren (@ McLarenF1) September 3, 2018

The Belgian is not retained by the British team for next season, but will finish the 2018 campaign with the Woking team. This is the end of a long partnership, as Stoffel Vandoorne joined the program dedicated to young McLaren drivers in 2013, the year of his honorary title of vice-champion in Formula Renault 3.5.

McLaren Racing boss Zak Brown recognizes defeat in the supply of a competitive single-seater This year. “It is clear that we have not given Stoffel the tools to demonstrate his true talent. His work ethic has been impressive, he maintains an excellent reputation within the team and we have enjoyed our relationship. »

The comments remain positive, even if Vandoorne heavily criticized his employer's lack of work throughout the season. “Of course, we would have loved to achieve more success together. He is a talented driver and we are proud to have played a part in his arrival in F1. »

Stoffel Vandoorne had replaced at short notice Fernando Alonso during the 2016 Bahrain Grand Prix, scoring the 10th place point with a McLaren. The Belgian was confirmed in the official crew in 2017, after the retirement of Jenson Button.

The French Formula 4 champion (in 2010) only uses ameliorative terms in his press release, the magic of modern communication. “I have really enjoyed the last two seasons with McLaren and I maintain good contact with all the team staff. I am grateful to McLaren for giving their trust over the past five years. »

Stoffel Vandoorne is however experiencing a critical 2018 campaign, marked by only three finishes in the points in the spring and an 8th place as best result (in Bahrain). He is in 16th place with 8 points after the Italian Grand Prix.

The identity of Stoffel Vandoorne's replacement is still unknown.

Find the analysis of the Italian GP by our special correspondent in issue 2181 of AUTOhebdo, on sale in digital version Monday evening and Wednesday on newsstands.