Capito, who joined Volkswagen from Ford in 2012, will be supported by racing director Eric Boullier, whose position will remain unchanged.

Neale, who was McLaren Racing's CEO up to now, has been appointed COO of the McLaren Technology Group.

"The timing of these moves will be actioned in 2016 in agreement with Jost's current employer, and a further announcement will follow in due course," McLaren said in a statement.

Both Neale and Capito will report to McLaren boss Ron Dennis.

"I first approached Jost last summer," said Dennis. "He is an extremely impressive, competitive and ambitious individual, who comes to us with a very wide range of automotive and motorsport experience, encompassing senior positions at BMW, Porsche, Ford, Sauber and, since 2012, Volkswagen.

"From a motorsport perspective he has experience in not only the World Rally Championship but also sports cars, touring cars, motorcycle racing and Formula 1, about which he is hugely knowledgeable and infectiously passionate.

"I am therefore delighted to welcome Jost to McLaren, and I am certain that he will work extremely well with Eric and all at McLaren Racing, building on the very good work they have already done to take the McLaren-Honda programme forward towards grand prix victories and world championship successes."

German Capito, 57, has led Volkswagen's WRC programme since 2012.

From the 39 WRC events ran between 2013-2015 under Capito's tenure, the German manufacturer has won 34 as a factory team.

Capito worked with BMW as an engineer in the late 1980s and was also a navigator for the truck team that won the 1985 Dakar Rally.

Neale added: "After 15 years in senior roles within McLaren Racing, most recently as COO and acting CEO, I am excited to be moving up to take on a wider remit, working directly with Ron to assist his leadership of McLaren Technology Group.

"I have enjoyed my time at McLaren Racing, and will of course remain closely involved in supporting Jost's and Eric's efforts to optimise the future success of the McLaren-Honda programme."