Gregory's side lost 5-1 at WBA on Sunday

The decision follows the 5-1 thrashing at West Brom on Sunday, which left the club at the bottom of the Championship.

Chairman Gianni Paladini told BBC 5live: "It was a very hard thing to do. I have nothing but admiration for what John has done for the club.

"We are very good friends but John understands these things happen in football. You've got to win games and if you don't, you've got a problem."

Ex-Aston Villa boss Gregory, 53, took over at QPR in September 2006 and saved the club from relegation last season.

However, QPR have not won a game so far this season and were dumped out of the Carling Cup by Leyton Orient.

606: DEBATE Who should replace Gregory?

The club have also been rocked by the tragic death of striker Ray Jones, who was killed in a car crash in August at the age of 18.

Gregory's position came under further scrutiny when Formula One magnates Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone began the process of taking over the club.

Paladini said he alone had taken the decision to sack Gregory, although he had informed Briatore and Ecclestone of his plans.

"It was a decision to make I had to make as chairman and I've done it," he said.

"But they are investing in the club so I had to tell them what was going to happen.

"It was a very hard thing to do for me to it and I don't want to make too much of a comment about it."

First-team coach Mick Harford has been appointed caretaker manager ahead of the game against Colchester on Wednesday.

Paladini said there would be no news on a permanent appointment at least until after Wednesday's game.

Italian pair Alessandro Costacurta and Gianluca Vialli have already been linked with the post, as has former Leicester manager Martin Allen.