Good news for all Williams fans: James Vowles, who has led the team to fifth place in the standings, will remain on board as team principal for the long term
James Vowles has committed his long-term future to Williams and will continue to lead the legendary British racing team into the future as team principal. As the team announced on Thursday afternoon, the 45-year-old Briton has extended his contract for the long term.
This also rules out a frequently speculated return to Mercedes as Toto Wolff’s successor for the time being.
“I am delighted to sign a new contract with Williams,” Vowles emphasized. “This team has felt like home from the very first moment. This iconic team has already given me some incredible memories, and we are all united in our goal to build on our heritage and win world championships again.“
”Over the past two years, we have focused on stabilizing the foundation, and now we have a platform to strive for glory in the years to come.”
However, no details were given about the length of the contract. Vowles joined Williams in 2023 from Mercedes, where he was previously chief strategist, replacing Jost Capito, who had taken over the Williams family legacy.
We’re pleased to announce Team Principal James Vowles has signed a new long-term contract with the team
After starting in 2023, James has spearheaded a transformation of the team with one clear mission: return us to winning ways. Hear from James on his future with the team.
— Atlassian Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) June 19, 2025
Since then, he has initiated a comprehensive transformation at Williams at all levels with one clear goal: to bring an icon of Formula 1 back to winning ways.
Under Vowles, Williams has had its best start to a season since 2016 in 2025. The team is currently fifth in the constructors’ championship with 55 points, more than it has scored in the past three years combined.
But Vowles has long since set his sights on the future: he sees 2025 as a transition year and wants to make the next leap forward under the new regulations in 2026.
“We are thrilled that James has signed a new contract with Williams and committed to completing the mission we are pursuing together,” said Matthew Savage, chairman of owner Dorilton Capital.
“He has brought experience, energy, and strategic leadership to the task of bringing Williams back to the top step of the podium. We’re not there yet, but you can feel the momentum we’re building in Grove, and we’re excited about what lies ahead.”
Meanwhile, the team no longer has to rely on pay drivers: Vowles has managed to sign his preferred driver for 2025 in Carlos Sainz. The Spaniard will continue to drive alongside Alexander Albon next year.
