Fernandes should remain director of Lotus F1

Tony Fernandes is expected to remain in his position as director of the Lotus Racing F1 team in the long term. He had suggested earlier this year that he would step down shortly after the start of the 2010 season. Fernandes, who is the co-owner of the team, has demonstrated that his role as team director has not affected his position as CEO of Air Asia. Confidence is high, and he would be very happy to maintain his current positions.

The reality is that I will be the real team principal, asserted Fernandes for Autosport. If you are an airline owner and you are also going to be a F1 team principal, shareholders are concerned. They start to see that it’s ok. It’s not a very difficult job once you have set up a good management team, but you must be the glue that has an eye on the whole team.

Fernandes is eager to retain his position in the longer term to help Lotus establish itself as a leading F1 team.

« It is important that I remain the team’s director in order to deliver what we have to offer. As the founder, I believe it would be a mistake to leave during such critical times. »

Fernandes will deliver a speech today at the opening of the ‘Business in Motorsport’ Forum taking place in Monaco.