The Williams Formula One team have appointed James Vowles as team principal following the departure of Jost Capito.
Contract:
- Vowles will join Williams on 20th February ahead of the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix
- The Brit moves to the Grove-based team from eight-time champions Mercedes
Context: Vowles has worked in Formula One for 21 years, most recenty as motorsport strategy director for the Mercedes Formula One team. The 43-year-old started as an engineer at British American Racing (BAR), before being promoted to race strategist at Brawn GP. The move to Williams will mark the first time Vowles has worked outside of the Brackley-based team in Formula One.
Comment: Vowles said: “I cannot wait to start with Williams Racing. It's an honour to join a team with such an incredibly rich heritage. The team is an icon of our sport, one I greatly respect, and I am very much looking forward to the challenge.”
Consequence: Following the retirement of the experienced Jost Capito, Williams Racing's owner Dorilton Capital has opted for a fresh face as team principal. Vowles has plenty of experience working in Formula One, having been involved in nine constructors' championships across Brawn GP and Mercedes, but has never led a team at the top level before. Expectations will be lower at the back of the grid, so Vowles should be given time to develop in the role.