wow- so close to the start of the season??

Eric Boullier leaves Lotus, and is linked with McLaren

Frenchman will be replaced by Gerard Lopez as Lotus team principal, with speculation he could be on his way to McLaren to replace Martin Whitmarsh

Eric Boullier has left the embattled Lotus team, with immediate speculation that he is favourite to take over from Martin Whitmarsh as team principal at McLaren. On the day McLaren launch their challenger for 2014, Lotus announced Boullier's departure with immediate effect, with owner Gerard Lopez taking over as team principal for 2014 in a move which will send shockwaves across the paddock.

McLaren said they will not be saying anything about the identity of their team principal today, but since Ron Dennis regained control of the Formula One operation last week it has become clear that Whitmarsh's days at the helm are numbered.

Telegraph Sport understands he will not be involved in today's launch, and the timing of Boullier's departure would suggest he is set to move to McLaren, according to Autosport.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/mclaren/10594352/Eric-Boullier-leaves-Lotus-and-is-linked-with-McLaren.html