Formula 1 has announced Frank Arthofer will leave his role as the sport’s Director of Digital and Licensing after four years in the position.
Arthofer assumed the title when Liberty Media became F1’s commercial rights holder in 2017 and has been responsible for developing the sport’s consumer facing businesses and expanding F1’s digital presence.
F1’s social media platforms have seen solid growth over the last number of years, last reporting a 32.9% follower increase across Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube from 2018 to 2019.
F1 has also delved into Esports under Arthofer’s leadership, which has been embraced by all current 10 teams on the grid.
With Arthofer vacating the position, F1 has asserted that he will not be directly replaced – instead, his responsibilities will move into other directorates within Formula 1.
Arthofer will continue to support the transition of his duties before leaving his role at the end of January.
“It’s been a great privilege to work on the transformation of the unique, world class, company that is Formula 1,” Arthofer said.
“Building the team and business from the ground up has been a professional challenge that I have relished and enjoyed from Day 1.
“I want to personally thank my staff at F1 for their constant focus on improvement, and Chase Carey and the team at Liberty Media for their enthusiastic support over the past 4 years.”
F1 Chairman Chase Carey added: “I want to thank Frank for his dedication and success in building and growing our digital platforms and licensing business.
“He joined us right at the start of our Formula 1 journey in 2017 and has been a big part of the team that has transformed Formula 1 into a leading global media and entertainment brand.
“Since Frank made his decision last year, he has been a great partner in helping me ensure a smooth transition of his business units – and I am confident that these areas will continue to thrive in their new homes within Formula 1.”
