Simon Roberts will be the interim team principal of Williams F1 Team from Tuscan GP onward as former CEO Mike O’Driscoll intends to retire.
Williams has announced Roberts as their interim team principal for the remainder of the 2020 F1 season from Tuscan GP onward, as a replacement of Claire and Frank Williams, who left their Deputy and full-time role, respectively.
Roberts joined Williams in May after having worked with McLaren since 2003 which included one-year at Force India in 2009, when the two F1 teams partnered for parts. At Williams, he was made the Managing Director overlooking the Technical, Operations and Planning.
He was reporting to CEO O’Driscoll, who has confirmed his intentions to retire after leaving his position after the takeover from Dorilton Capital. For now, it looks to be a temporary solution for Williams with Roberts as they go through the transition period.
Both O’Driscoll and the Williams family will be working at Grove to help Dorilton Capital set their base in the transition period. The new owners announced co-founders Matthew Savage & Darren Fultz along with James Matthews as their new board members.
“I am delighted to be announced as Acting Team Principal for Williams during this transitional period,” said Roberts. “It is an exciting time ahead for the team, a new era for Williams and one that I am excited to be playing a part in. I look forward to the challenge ahead as we look to take the team back to the front of the grid.”
Meanwhile, O’Driscoll added: “It has been and remains a huge privilege to be part of this great team. I am proud to have played my part in securing the long-term future of Williams and look forward to working closely with Matthew and his team, to ensure a smooth transition and the best possible trajectory for the team’s future success.”
And finally, Dorilton Capital’s Savage stated: “Mike has made a huge contribution as CEO, working alongside the Williams family since the IPO in 2011. He has steered the corporate side of the group admirably through challenging times and has been invaluable in preparing Williams for the next exciting phase.”
Here’s news on Simon Roberts joining Williams
Here’s Claire Williams on her parting with the team
Here’s board members including Royal Family links
Here’s the full statement from Claire
Here’s news on Sebastian Vettel buying Williams car
Here’s Williams on sale to Dorilton Capital plus no Bernie Ecclestone links