Sam Michael has been given permission by his former employer, Williams, to start work with McLaren early, giving him the opportunity to attend the final two races with the team.
Michael left Williams in late-September after spending a lengthly period of time as technical director. He joined McLaren in October as sporting director, but under his contract with Williams, couldn’t start work until the new season in March.
It’s understood that McLaren have negotiated an end to his ‘gardening leave’, allowing the 40-year-old to begin his new role on November 1st.
He will attend the final two races in Abu Dhabi and Brazil to observe the team.