McLaren have announced that Eric Boullier has been appointed as the Formula 1 team's racing director following his departure from Lotus.

The Frenchman had been expected to make the move to McLaren having stepped down from his role as Lotus team principal last Friday.

While McLaren have not confirmed that Boullier will replace team principal Martin Whitmarsh, widespread reports have claimed that the 55-year-old has left the Formula 1 outfit.

Boullier said in a statement: "First of all, I regard this appointment as an honour, a privilege and a wonderful opportunity.

"The McLaren Racing workforce and the facilities at the McLaren Technology Centre are world-class, and I'm hugely excited about the prospect of joining such an outstanding team.

"I'm both eager and determined to play an active part, working alongside McLaren Racing's other senior managers and directors, within a new operational structure, to bring about the changes that will deliver success."

Boullier will officially begin his role on February 3.