Williams signs ex-Mercedes strategy chief Vowles as F1 team boss

Williams has announced the signing of James Vowles, who joins the squad as its Team Principal for the 2023 Formula 1 season.

Vowles takes up the role following after several successful years with Mercedes as its strategy director, where he played a key role in its run of success in the turbo-hybrid era.

Williams was seeking a new team boss after the retirement of Jost Capito.

Prior to his work with Mercedes, Vowles held positions in the Brackley-based squad under its various guises, including British American Racing (BAR), Honda Racing and Brawn GP.

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“I cannot wait to start with Williams Racing,” Vowles said. “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. Mercedes have been hugely supportive on my journey, and we part on excellent terms after over 20 years of working in Brackley. 

“I am grateful for everything Toto [Wolff] and the team have provided, and it has been such a special experience to journey together through failure and success. 

“Williams Racing have placed their faith and trust in me, and I will do the same in return. Williams has tremendous potential, and our journey together starts in a matter of weeks.”

Vowles will officially take up the position on February 20 ahead of pre-season testing in Bahrain.

Williams finished the 2022 season 10th in the Constructors’ Championship, scoring eight points throughout the year.

It has retained Alexander Albon on a multi-year deal, while also bringing in rookie Logan Sargeant following a year in its junior academy.

“We are delighted to welcome James to Williams Racing,” said Matthew Savage, chairman of the Dorilton Capital group that owns Williams. 

“He is one of the most highly respected talents in Formula 1 and will bring performance. He has been a key part of some of the most impressive feats in the sport over the past 15 years. 

“As we continue our relentless pursuit for results, we believe that the appointment of James reinforces our dedication to ensuring we have energetic, experienced, and strong leadership as we move into the next phase of transforming Williams Racing.”

Williams is also set to announce a technical director following the departure of FX Demaison last month.