McLaren dispute Red Bull aerodynamic appointment

Reigning world champions Red Bull have announced Dan Fallows as their new head of aerodynamics, although McLaren dispute the appointment.

Fallows worked as part of the Milton Keynes-based team’s aerodynamic department for several years, before leaving the squad for a short period. Red Bull say he has now returned to begin working in his new role.

However, McLaren said in a statement on Wednesday that Fallows is contracted to them. Speaking during a McLaren-Mercedes teleconference, racing director Eric Boullier said: “Dan Fallows has a legally binding contract with McLaren and the matter is now in the hands of our lawyers”.

As well as announcing Fallows’ new role, Red Bull confirmed that Peter Prodromou has now commenced a period of gardening leave before an expected move to McLaren.

As chief aerodynamicist, Prodromou was a key member of Adrian Newey’s technical team during the Anglo-Austrian team’s run to four consecutive drivers’ and constructors’ crowns.

Red Bull thanked Prodromou for his "valuable contribution" to the team.