With a blend of sophistication, elegance, and a rebellious touch, Moto Morini presents the Rumble, a 350cc bobber that arrives to conquer motorcycle enthusiasts passionate about style and freedom. Inspired by the minimalist designs of the early 20th century, the new motorcycle combines vintage elements with cutting-edge technology, creating a machine that exudes personality.

A Tribute to Freedom with a Rock Soul

The Rumble’s visual is a true work of art on two wheels. Its robust and laid-back design pays homage to the rebellious and adventurous spirit of the first motorcycles, while presenting modern lines and an aesthetic worthy of action movies. The proposal is clear: offer an experience that goes beyond transportation, transforming each journey into a memorable adventure.

Compact Engine, Full of Vigor

At the heart of the Rumble is a 350cc V2 engine, based on the historic Moto Morini 3½ platform. With 33 horsepower and 31Nm of torque, the motorcycle promises agile and responsive riding, capable of reaching a maximum speed of 150 km/h. Its belt transmission provides smooth and silent power delivery, elevating the riding experience to another level.

Stability and Comfort in the Right Measure

One of the most striking characteristics of the Rumble is its wide front tire, typical of classic bobbers, which not only reinforces the aggressive look but also ensures stability and excellent cornering grip. The low and ergonomic seat, with a height of 735 mm, combines comfort and style, allowing long journeys without compromising the rider’s posture.

Technology Allied with Style

Despite its classic design, the Rumble incorporates modern technological solutions that make the experience even more complete. Highlights include the integrated navigation system, which allows viewing maps directly on the screen. The LED lighting, with Moto Morini’s characteristic signature, ensures superior visibility in any light condition.

Prepared for City and Road

With compact dimensions and a dry weight of less than 175 kg, the Rumble is perfect for both navigating busy streets and exploring scenic roads. Its chassis was designed to offer precise and intuitive handling, ideal for beginner or experienced riders. Additionally, the motorcycle is compatible with the A2 driver’s license, expanding its appeal to a diverse audience.

Impressive Technical Characteristics

The Moto Morini Rumble does not disappoint in terms of specifications. Its double-cradle steel chassis, 43 mm inverted front suspension, and adjustable rear shock absorbers ensure a balance between comfort and performance. The two-channel ABS brakes, combined with robust discs, offer safety and precision.

• Engine: V2 350cc, 24 kW (32.6 hp)
• Dry weight: <175 kg
• Seat height: 735 mm
• Maximum speed: 150 km/h
• Tires: 130/90-16 front and 150/80-16 rear

Market Arrival
The Moto Morini Rumble will be available in the brand’s official network from the second half of 2025. With its bold design, advanced technology, and top-tier performance, the Rumble promises to redefine the low-displacement segment, being the ideal choice for those seeking more than a motorcycle — a true road companion.

Source: Moto Morini

O conteúdo Moto Morini Rumble: A mix of sophistication, elegance and a rebellious touch aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

The long-standing rivalry between Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and Red Bull’s Christian Horner has flared up again, with Wolff accusing his counterpart of being the lone holdout among Formula 1 team principals during last year’s FIA investigation into a potential conflict of interest involving Wolff and his wife, Susie Wolff.

In a candid interview with The Guardian, Toto Wolff revealed how Horner hesitated to support a statement opposing the FIA’s December 2023 probe, which alleged a conflict between his role at Mercedes and Susie Wolff’s position as Managing Director of the F1 Academy.

“Wolff vs. Horner: The Saga Continues”

While nine of the ten team principals quickly rallied behind Wolff, spearheaded by Ferrari’s Fred Vasseur, Horner reportedly needed “persuasion” before signing on.

“Fred took it into his hands and said: ‘This is just so unfair,’” Wolff recounted. “From Guenther Steiner to James Vowles, everybody jumped on to this… except Christian.”

Wolff said Horner initially refused to endorse the collective statement and even attempted to amend its wording.

“In the second iteration, he tried to get the word ‘official’ in the statement. He wanted it noted that no one [among the team principals] officially complained to the FIA,” Wolff revealed. “The other teams said: ‘Fine. We do our declaration and you do your own.’ In the end, he signed it.”

Wolff criticized Horner’s apparent reluctance, remarking, “I don’t think you can rely on what he says.”

“The Short-Lived Probe and Its Fallout”

The FIA’s investigation, launched after an unnamed team principal lodged a complaint, was swiftly closed following backlash from the Wolffs and a unified response from nine of the ten teams. However, the brief probe sparked outrage, particularly from Susie Wolff, who later filed a criminal complaint against the FIA in March 2024.

“There has still not been any transparency or accountability in relation to the conduct of the FIA and its personnel in this matter,” Susie Wolff stated. “Whilst some may think silence absolves them from responsibility—it does not.”

The incident coincided with the recent departure of Paolo Basarri, the FIA’s Compliance Officer, amid alleged tensions with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

“Horner’s Calculated Move?”

Horner’s initial hesitation and subsequent demands for amendments raise questions about his motives. Was it a calculated move to avoid implicating Red Bull in the FIA’s actions, or simply another chapter in his combative relationship with Wolff?

The incident underscores the persistent power struggle between Mercedes and Red Bull, with Horner’s actions once again placing him in the spotlight as the Wolff-Horner feud shows no signs of cooling.

“The Bigger Picture: FIA Accountability”

Beyond the Wolff-Horner dynamic, the controversy has reignited calls for greater transparency and accountability within the FIA. The quick closure of the probe, coupled with Susie Wolff’s vocal criticism, has put pressure on the governing body to address perceived lapses in its procedures.

As Formula 1 heads into another high-stakes season, the Wolff-Horner rivalry remains a focal point, reflecting broader tensions within the sport. Whether these incidents will lead to meaningful reforms—or just more fiery headlines—remains to be seen.

O conteúdo Toto Wolff Calls Out Christian Horner Over FIA Conflict Probe Reluctance aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

The Faenza-based Visa Cash App RB F1 Team (RB) has stunned the paddock once again, unveiling a bold new livery for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Known for its penchant for special designs, RB has delivered its most audacious look yet—an eye-popping mix of green, blue, and red, sparkling under the city’s iconic lights. The design, described by drivers as “bright, sparkly, and loud,” aims to captivate fans while symbolizing the team’s fighting spirit as they battle for a crucial sixth-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship.

“A Livery to Match Las Vegas’s Glitz”

RB’s latest design on the VCARB 01 is tailor-made for the vibrant Las Vegas atmosphere. The team, led by Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, hopes the glittering scheme will bring them luck as they tackle one of the most anticipated weekends of the season.

“We struggled here last year,” Lawson admitted. “But we’ve made some changes, and we think we understand how to improve the car here. We are optimistic, and our target is to score points with both cars.”

“A Close Fight for Sixth”

RB enters the Vegas weekend in eighth place in the Constructors’ standings, trailing Haas (46 points) and Alpine (49 points) with their current haul of 44 points. With Alpine’s surprise double podium in Brazil and Haas remaining a consistent threat, RB faces a steep challenge to climb the rankings.

Lawson and Tsunoda have been instrumental in keeping RB competitive in a turbulent 2024 campaign. Both drivers are under immense pressure, knowing that a strong finish in the standings could boost their chances of securing a coveted Red Bull Racing seat for 2025.

“We are in a close fight for P6,” Lawson emphasized. “It’s critical to maximize every opportunity in these final races.”

“A Season of Resilience and Change”

The 2024 season has been anything but smooth for RB. The team has faced challenges both on and off the track but has demonstrated resilience in adapting to changes throughout the campaign. The special liveries have provided moments of brightness in an otherwise challenging year, offering fans a spectacle while keeping morale high within the team.

Tsunoda and Lawson’s solid performances have given RB a fighting chance to surpass their rivals in the final stretch. If the pair can secure P6 in the Constructors’ Championship, it will not only validate their efforts but also place them in pole position for the Red Bull Racing seat alongside Max Verstappen in 2025.

“Vegas: The Ultimate Test”

With the high-speed straights and technical challenges of the Las Vegas circuit, RB will need both precision and strategy to stay ahead in the tight Constructors’ battle. While the dazzling livery is sure to turn heads, all eyes will be on whether Lawson and Tsunoda can deliver the double-points finish the team so desperately needs.

As the F1 carnival unfolds on the Las Vegas Strip, RB’s glittering machine will symbolize more than just style—it will stand as a statement of their determination to climb the standings and end the season on a high. Whether it’s enough to secure sixth place remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: RB is ready to light up Vegas in every sense of the word.

O conteúdo VIDEO – RB Drops Dazzling Las Vegas Livery Amidst Fierce Fight for P6 in Constructors’ Standings aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

Triumph presents the Tiger Sport 660, a model that promises to redefine the medium-cylinder adventure sport motorcycle segment, combining performance, versatility and fun. With its unique three-cylinder engine, advanced technology and agile maneuverability, this bike adapts to the needs of different riders, whether for daily commuting in the city or weekend adventures.

Performance and versatility: For all types of riders

At the heart of the Tiger Sport 660 is a three-cylinder engine that delivers power in a linear and exciting way. This engine, known for its smoothness and quick response, offers a dynamic riding experience, whether in urban traffic or on winding roads.

For riders with an A2 license, Triumph offers a restriction kit, which can be easily installed and then removed by an authorized dealer, making this bike an accessible and adaptable choice throughout the rider’s progression.

Technology and comfort: A rider-focused ride

The Tiger Sport 660 is equipped with advanced technology that puts the rider at the heart of the experience. The agile handling is complemented by modern features that offer greater control and safety in different scenarios.

With practical features and a design designed for comfort, this bike excels both on short urban journeys and on longer adventures. Its versatile spirit turns every journey into a real exploration, guaranteeing pleasure at every turn.

O conteúdo Video: Tiger Sport 660 – Everything you want to know about Triumph’s latest model aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

The 2024 Milan International Motorcycle Show (EICMA) brought several innovations for motorcycle enthusiasts, with KOVE standing out by presenting a renewed lineup that reinforces its commitment to performance. Under the slogan “Focus on Performance”, the brand revealed a diverse range of models covering Trail, Motocross, and Street segments, aimed at motorcyclists seeking innovation and exciting riding experiences.

Adventure Models: Prepared for Challenges and Long Trips

KOVE strongly invested in the Adventure segment, with new models designed to meet the demands of riders seeking versatility and resilience.

• 800X Rally: This motorcycle, optimized for rally raid, presents itself as a light and agile proposal, weighing only 165 kg. With dual-chamber shock absorbers and high-performance materials, it promises to stand out in demanding trials. Will reach global markets in December 2024.
• 800X GT: Perfect for long trips, this model includes electronic throttle, cruise control, traction control system (TCS), and a generous 22-liter tank. The high windscreen and comfort make it ideal for exploring new horizons. Available in the second quarter of 2025.
• 450 Rally EX: A machine focused on competitions, without road homologation. Light, powerful, and equipped with a reinforced navigation tower, this motorcycle promises to be a trump card in the most challenging rallies.

800X GT / 800X Rally

450 Rally EX

Street Models: Performance and Style on the Road

KOVE did not forget urban motorcyclists, presenting innovations that combine sporty aesthetics with high performance.

• 250RR/250R: Entry models in the sports segment, ideal for new riders. Inspired by WSBK motorcycle competition, they offer character and fun.
• 350RR: Developed for road and competition, this motorcycle features a new engine and frame, 35 kW of power and an improved aerodynamic design. Will be a protagonist in the 2025 SSP season.
• 450R: A minimalist and light naked bike, equipped with a four-cylinder engine, promising a direct and engaging riding experience. Currently in homologation phase.

250RR / 250R

350RR / 450R

Motocross Models: Power and Agility on the Track

For motocross enthusiasts, KOVE introduced significant improvements to its models, focusing on lightness and performance.

• MX250 GEN2: With a more powerful engine and improved suspension, this motorcycle was designed to offer greater control and agility on the track.
• MX450: Incorporating the engine from the 450 Rally EX, this model was developed to combine power and lightness, indispensable characteristics for dominating motocross tracks.

MX250 / MX450

Source: KOVE

O conteúdo EICMA 2024: KOVE Renewed Lineup Focused on Performance aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

Moto Morini promises to take the adventure bike experience to another level with the launch of the new X-Cape 700, a model that combines power, versatility, and bold design. Designed to explore the mid-displacement motorcycle segment, this machine combines advanced technical features with a striking visual, becoming the perfect choice for those who want to challenge limits, whether on asphalt or off-road.

Style and Ergonomics: A Silhouette Inspired by Maxi Enduros

With a design inspired by large adventure bikes, the X-Cape 700 stands out for its elegant lines and robust posture. The ergonomics have been carefully crafted to offer comfort and dynamism, allowing stable riding on both irregular terrain and urban roads.

Powerful and Versatile Engine

At the heart of the X-Cape 700 lies a 693cc parallel-twin engine, capable of delivering 71 horsepower and a maximum torque of 68 Nm at 6,500 rpm. This configuration provides responsive acceleration and linear performance, ideal for quick overtaking and challenging curves.

Thanks to its advanced technology, the engine maintains stable power at low revs, offering versatility for both long trips and off-road adventures. Additionally, the liquid cooling system ensures efficiency even in extreme conditions, while compliance with Euro 5+ standards reflects a commitment to sustainability.

Premium Construction and Suspension

The steel frame, combined with an aluminum swingarm, provides rigidity and lightness to the motorcycle’s structure. The suspensions are a highlight: a 50mm Marzocchi inverted fork, adjustable in compression and rebound, and a Kayaba rear shock with remote preload adjustment and 165mm travel. These features ensure superior control and comfortable performance on any terrain.

The 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels are available in lightweight alloy or spoke versions, both equipped with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires for maximum grip in dry, wet, or dirt conditions.

Technology and Safety: An Elevated Experience

The X-Cape 700 is rich in technology designed to enhance the rider’s experience. Highlights include:

• 7-inch TFT display with integrated navigation and essential information such as speed, fuel level, and maintenance alerts.
• Brembo braking system, with dual 298mm front discs and 255mm rear disc, accompanied by switchable Bosch ABS for adaptation to each terrain’s needs.
• Full LED lighting for perfect visibility, even in low-light conditions.

Comfort wasn’t forgotten, with an ergonomic seat adjustable to two heights (820mm or 845mm), perfect for both average and tall riders.

Ready for Any Challenge

With an 18-liter fuel tank and a dry weight of 213 kg, the Moto Morini X-Cape 700 is ready for extended adventures. The slipper clutch and various available adjustments make it agile in urban traffic and stable on highways or more demanding terrain.

A New Era for Adventure Bikes

The Moto Morini X-Cape 700 arrives to establish itself as a reference in the mid-displacement segment, combining technological innovation, excellent performance, and distinctive style. Available at authorized dealers in the second quarter of 2025, this model promises to win the hearts of adventurers seeking a balanced, reliable, and inspiring motorcycle.

Whether exploring new horizons or facing daily challenges, the X-Cape 700 is an unmatched ally. A motorcycle where every kilometer is a story waiting to be told.

O conteúdo Moto Morini X-Cape 700: More experiences, more living and more adventures without limits aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

The Sport C4 leather pants for men are the ideal choice for those seeking to combine comfort, safety, and a discreet design during their motorcycle adventures. Developed for sport riding, these pants stand out for their attention to technical details and a cut that prioritizes fit and freedom of movement, ensuring a superior riding experience.

Minimalist Design and Functionality
Made from Tutu cowhide leather, a material recognized for its strength and durability, the Sport C4 pants feature a minimalist yet highly functional design. The bi-elastic S1 fabric details, located in the crotch area and legs, enhance flexibility and comfort, while the fixed Nanofeel® lining provides a pleasant touch to the skin and antibacterial properties.

The versatility of the pants is evident in their adjustable design, with an adjustable waist and micro-elastics that provide a precise fit to the body. The connection zipper allows the pants to be combined with any jacket in the range equipped with a connection system, creating a cohesive and secure outfit for the rider.

Certified Safety
Safety is a central point of these pants, which meet rigorous European CE certification standards (Regulation (EU) 2016/425). Equipped with composite protectors in critical areas, the Sport C4 offers an additional layer of protection without compromising user mobility or comfort.

Discreet Elegance
With a palette of understated colors and a timeless style, these pants are a versatile piece that easily matches any sport jacket. The discreet aesthetics, without excesses, makes the Sport C4 a refined choice for motorcyclists who value a clean and elegant look without sacrificing technical performance.

High-Quality Materials
The pants are manufactured with premium materials:

• Tutu leather, recognized for its strength and durability.
• Bi-elastic S1 fabric, which enhances flexibility and fit.
• Nanofeel® lining, which ensures comfort and hygiene thanks to its antibacterial properties.

The Sport C4 pants were designed to provide the perfect balance between comfort, style, and protection. Whether you’re tackling winding mountain roads or enjoying a more urban ride, these pants are a reliable and sophisticated choice.

Available exclusively in the men’s version, the Sport C4 reaffirms the commitment to excellence that characterizes Ducati, being an essential piece for any sport motorcyclist who values performance and aesthetics.

O conteúdo Sport C4 Leather Pants: Style and Protection for Motorcyclists aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

Lando Norris, McLaren’s star driver, has opened up about his bittersweet 2024 Formula 1 season—a year of remarkable highs and frustrating near-misses. While he’s secured three grand prix wins, seven pole positions, and 12 podiums, Norris remains conflicted about falling short in his bid for the drivers’ title as Max Verstappen looms large to claim another championship.

In an introspective and at times emotional conversation, Norris dissected the lessons learned, defended against harsh criticism, and laid down a bold challenge for 2025: to fight for the championship from the very first race.

“It’s Been a Very Good Year—but I Get the Criticism”

Norris admits the 2024 campaign has been his most prolific season yet, but it hasn’t been without missed opportunities. For all McLaren’s remarkable strides in performance—transforming into a genuine contender after years of struggle—there have been stumbles that hurt his title chances.

“It’s been a very good year, but I completely understand why people think it hasn’t been,” Norris said. “I almost agree! But once you know the reasons why things happened, I’m still proud of the season it’s been.”

From losing potential victories in Silverstone, Canada, and Hungary, to being outmaneuvered by Verstappen in critical moments, Norris acknowledged that both he and McLaren could have done better.

“There’s been missed opportunities. That’s a fact,” Norris admitted. “But I’m happy with the whole season because it’s clear that when things go right, how amazing they can be.”

Defending the Progress Amid Criticism

The pressure of stepping into title contention has subjected Norris to heightened scrutiny. While his pole-to-win ratio (three wins from seven poles) has been criticized, Norris was quick to defend the progress McLaren and he have made.

“It’s tough when people think we’ve had the most dominant car ever,” Norris explained. “I’ve been on pole by three thousandths or five thousandths, and those positions stay for the rest of the race.”

He also addressed comparisons to his 2020 comments about Lewis Hamilton, where he suggested Hamilton had an easier path to victory due to Mercedes’ dominance. Now having faced the complexities of fighting for wins, Norris reflected on his growth.

“I’ve always known how tough it is. But the harsh reality of living in that situation is even more challenging,” Norris said. “Even the smallest mistakes are magnified when you’re fighting at the top.”

“Next Year Is the Year”: No Excuses for 2025

As the 2024 season nears its conclusion, Norris is already focused on the next chapter. With McLaren poised to secure their first Constructors’ Championship since 2008, Norris believes the team’s momentum sets the stage for a true title challenge in 2025.

“Next year is the year—probably the first one since I’ve been in Formula 1 where I can go, ‘We are challenging for the title,’” Norris declared.

Having recommitted to McLaren on a long-term deal, Norris feels vindicated in sticking with the team during its struggles, even as speculation linked him to Red Bull.

“I’m very happy that I’ve stuck with the team I believed in, even when a lot of people didn’t,” he said. “The fact we’ve gone from where we were to beating Red Bull is an incredible achievement.”

Climbing the Summit

While Norris is proud of McLaren’s transformation, he knows this season’s shortcomings must fuel further growth. “There will be no excuses next year,” Norris said emphatically, acknowledging the need to eliminate errors and capitalize on McLaren’s growing strengths.

Whether Norris’s 2024 campaign is remembered as a stepping stone or a missed opportunity will depend on his and McLaren’s ability to translate this year’s lessons into dominance in 2025. For now, Norris remains optimistic—and determined to take the next step.

“This season has shown what’s possible,” Norris said. “But next year, we have to make it a reality.”

O conteúdo Lando Norris Reflects on Near-Miss 2024 Season: ‘Next Year Is the Year for the Title’ aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

The history of British motorcycling is full of iconic models, but few have the prestige and importance of the Velocette KTT. Launched in 1928, this motorcycle was not only a feat of innovative engineering, but also a true victory machine in some of the most prestigious competitions of the time, including the legendary Isle of Man TT. With a bold design and impressive performance for its era, the KTT solidified Velocette’s name as one of the leading manufacturers of sport and racing motorcycles in the United Kingdom.

The Emergence of the Velocette KTT

Velocette, founded in 1905 by John Edgar in Birmingham, rose to prominence in the 1920s and 1930s due to its ability to produce high-performance motorcycles. The KTT marked a milestone, designed specifically for the demands of competition, with the brand aiming to conquer the most challenging circuits, such as the Isle of Man TT, one of the toughest motorcycle races in the world.

The KTT was the evolution of the Velocette K Series, a 350cc model, but with a more powerful engine, focused even more on speed. The model was developed to meet the new demands of racing, with the goal of competing against the best brands of the time, such as Norton and AJS, who dominated the tracks.

Technical Innovations of the KTT

The engine of the Velocette KTT was a 350cc single-cylinder, with valves controlled by a double overhead camshaft system (thus enhancing the bike’s performance), a technical feature that stood out at the time. This engine was designed to reach speeds of over 100 mph (160 km/h), a major achievement in the 1920s. The KTT also had a lightweight and agile frame, allowing excellent performance in tight corners and long straights on racing circuits.

Moreover, the KTT’s suspension system was one of the major innovations of its time. The design of the front suspension was more advanced than many competitors, providing greater stability and comfort during the race. The KTT also featured a four-speed gearbox, a characteristic appreciated by riders for its reliability and speed during competition.

Success on the Track: The Isle of Man TT

The true brilliance of the Velocette KTT came in competitions, especially at the Isle of Man TT. In 1929, just a year after the launch of the KTT, the motorcycle had already achieved important victories, establishing Velocette as a top brand in racing. The bike was ridden by renowned riders of the time, such as Freddie Hicks, who claimed significant victories and podium finishes in several editions of the TT.

The KTT was also successful in other prestigious competitions, such as road races and national championships, where it demonstrated its durability and performance on demanding circuits. It was not just a fast machine; it was also a motorcycle that withstood the wear and tear of intense, long-duration events.

Legacy of the Velocette KTT

Despite its relatively limited production, the Velocette KTT left a legacy that endures to this day. The brand played a key role in the development of sport motorcycling and helped establish the United Kingdom as a hub of innovation and excellence in the motorcycle world. The KTT is frequently remembered by collectors and motorcycle enthusiasts as one of the great achievements in motor engineering, with many models still on display in specialized museums, such as the National Motorcycle Museum in the UK.

In terms of cultural impact, the KTT symbolizes the golden age of British motorcycling, when competitions were as fierce as the need for technological innovation. Velocette, and especially the KTT, helped set a standard that would be followed by other motorcycle brands and continues to be a reference for racing motorcycles to this day.

O conteúdo Velocette KTT (1928): An icon of competitive motorcycling aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.

In a shocking shakeup, McLaren has parted ways with its IndyCar team boss Gavin Ward, a man whose glittering resume includes working under the legendary Adrian Newey, engineering championship-winning cars at Red Bull, and clinching an IndyCar title with Team Penske at his first attempt. For a team celebrated for its daring moves, this decision is a headline-grabber, leaving fans and pundits alike questioning the logic behind cutting loose a proven winner after McLaren’s best season in years.

Why Ward, Why Now?

Ward’s ousting, which McLaren insists was its decision, comes as the team navigates growing pains while trying to establish itself as a regular contender in IndyCar. After transitioning from Schmidt Peterson Motorsports in 2020, McLaren has made significant investments to climb the ranks, expanding its roster, upgrading facilities, and growing from two to three full-time cars, with four entries at marquee events like the Indy 500.

So why did Ward—credited with creating a healthier workplace culture and leading McLaren to its strongest season since joining IndyCar—find himself out of a job? According to McLaren CEO Zak Brown, the decision was about aligning the team’s leadership with its future ambitions.

“We’ve grown substantially, and moving forward, we felt a change was necessary,” said Brown. “This wasn’t about personality clashes or dissatisfaction with Gavin. It’s about giving others within the team the opportunity to stretch their legs and take us to the next level.”

While Brown showered Ward with praise during the announcement, the team boss was conspicuously absent from the accompanying media call, leaving his perspective on the move a mystery.

A Team in Transition

Brown’s remarks indicate that McLaren is looking to replicate its Formula 1 structure by employing a “senior leadership team” model instead of relying on a single team principal. IndyCar Deputy Team Principal Tony Kanaan, General Manager Brian Barnhart, and others will collectively guide the operation, with Brown stepping in as a tie-breaker for major decisions.

Kanaan, a racing icon in his own right, downplayed any ambitions of permanently taking over as team principal, saying, “I’ll do whatever the team needs me to do.”

McLaren’s leadership restructuring also coincides with a flurry of hiring. Over the last two off-seasons, the team has added more than 60 employees to its ranks—a number rivaling the total staff of some entire IndyCar outfits. These moves signal McLaren’s commitment to growth, but the departure of Ward, who was instrumental in steering the ship during this expansion, raises eyebrows.

Ward’s Legacy and McLaren’s Gamble

Ward’s contributions to McLaren are undeniable. From his days at Red Bull, where he helped design the sport’s first seamless-shift gearbox and collaborated with F1 stars like Mark Webber and Daniel Ricciardo, to his championship-winning tenure at Penske, Ward has a proven track record of success. His tenure at McLaren saw the team contend strongly at the Indy 500 and achieve its most competitive season since returning to IndyCar.

However, critics argue that McLaren’s decision to part ways with Ward feels counterintuitive. As Brown himself acknowledged, Ward’s engineering prowess and leadership helped elevate the team’s performance during a turbulent year marked by driver turnover and an unprecedented hiring spree. Now, as McLaren prepares to settle into a new headquarters and solidify its place among IndyCar’s elite, it must do so without the man who played a pivotal role in its resurgence.

What’s Next for Ward—and McLaren?

Ward’s departure opens the door to a flurry of speculation about his next move. With his expertise, he’s likely to have offers pouring in from across the IndyCar and Formula 1 paddocks. However, a potential non-compete clause could delay his return to the track, a common stipulation for high-level team members in motorsport.

Meanwhile, McLaren insists the decision to part ways with Ward is part of a broader plan to ensure long-term stability. Brown hinted at upcoming announcements that could further reshape the team’s future, including potential expansions of McLaren’s stake in its IndyCar program.

For now, the move remains a bold gamble for a team striving to bridge the gap between ambition and achievement. Whether McLaren’s bet will pay off or backfire spectacularly will unfold in the seasons to come. As for Gavin Ward, one thing is certain: his story in motorsport is far from over.

O conteúdo McLaren Makes a Bold Bet: IndyCar Boss Gavin Ward Out with Leadership Overhaul aparece primeiro em Motorcycle Sports.