News broke earlier today that Lotus technical director James Allison is leaving the team.

Allison, highly regarded in the F1 paddock, is very much considered to be the mastermind behind Lotus’ speed and as technical director had become a vital member of the Enstone based team.

Allison joined the team in 1991 while still in its previous guise of Benneton. He had spells at both Larrousse and Ferrari but returned to Renault in 2005 after which he was appointed the technical director in 2009. News of his departure came as a surprise too many, especially in the midst of a season for which Lotus has high hopes.

Naturally, it remains to early to speculate on what effect Allison’s departure will have on the team but losing such an integral and important member of the team will certainly have some impact. Team owner, Gerard Lopez was quoted as saying that only ‘shock events’ could potentially derail Lotus’ quest for a top three finish in the championship – does this qualify Mr. Lopez?

The announcement of Allison’s departure will further intensify rumours that Kimi Raikkonen may be looking elsewhere for a race seat in the near future. Lotus’ biggest drawcard for retaining Raikkonen has been the potential to deliver a race-winning car and with the leaving of James Allison that potential has significantly decreased.

While it looks likely that Allison may join Ferrari, Lotus have appointed Nick Chester as its new technical director.