Ron Dennis has categorically refuted claims he is to "step back" from his role as McLaren boss at the end of the season.

Such a move has been speculated upon for some considerable time, in particular after last year's spy scandal that proved draining for the 61-year-old.

It has also been suggested if Lewis Hamilton wins the world title this season that would allow Dennis to leave on a high and current McLaren F1 CEO Martin Whitmarsh to take up the reins

A Spanish newspaper quoted Dennis as saying he was considering taking a step back.

The report has left Dennis completely baffled as on Sunday he said: "I haven't spoken to any member of the press for three weeks (since the end of the Hungarian Grand Prix).

"It's just a complete fabrication, an absolute fabrication.

"I don't know where the story has come from, but I haven't spoken to anybody for weeks."