Despite claims that he was leaving McLaren, designer Adrian Newey will remain with the Woking outfit.

Talking to Pitpass, a spokesperson said: "Adrian has extended his contract with McLaren Racing and will participate in the long-term reorganisation of the technical function."

Part of this reorganization sees Paddy Lowe promoted to engineering director, overseeing vehicle design, aerodynamics, simulation and race engineering, while Nicholas Tombazis becomes vehicle project director.

"Adrian will step back from his hands-on role but will remain as technical director, providing guidance in particular to Paddy and Nicholas," said the spokesperson.

In the past, Newey, who was subject of a tug-of-war between the Woking team and Jaguar in 2001, has admitted that in time he would like to move on, expressing an interest in designing racing yachts. With this in mind there is speculation as to how long his new contract lasts.

"This is something that will be kept between Adrian and the team," said the spokesperson. "But we believe his long-term future is with McLaren."