JUNE 1, 2001

Newey signature starts McLaren-Jaguar row

THE proposed move of Adrian Newey to Jaguar has started a war of words with McLaren with both teams claiming to have secured his services.

Jaguar announced on Friday that they had signed Newey when his current deal with McLaren expires in August 2002, but McLaren have responded by stating that they have a deal with Newey beyond then.

"McLaren International and Adrian Newey wish to confirm that he will continue with the team beyond the term of his existing contract," said the statement.

But a Jaguar spokesman sternly claimed: "We have a legally binding contract with Adrian Newey."

Jaguar had previously quoted Newey as claiming the challenge of pushing the team to the top of Grand Prix racing was "irresistible."