After more than 40 years running one of Formula One’s most storied teams, the Williams family is stepping aside so that its new owners have a clear shot at reviving the team’s fortunes.
Claire Williams, whose father co-founded the Williams F1 team but no longer attends races, is stepping down as deputy team principal after this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix.
The move follows the recent change in ownership to American-based investment firm Dorilton Capital, and means that the famed F1 family will cut its ties after 43 years and nearly 750 races.
“I have taken the decision to step away from the team in order to allow Dorilton a fresh start as the new owners,” Claire Williams, F1’s only female boss, said in a statement on Thursday.
“It has not been an easy decision but it’s one I believe to be right for all involved.
“With the future of the team now secured, this feels like the appropriate time for us to step away from the sport.”
The team was co-founded by Frank Williams and won seven drivers’ championships – including that of 1980 for Australian Alan Jones – and nine constructors’ titles since entering the sport in 1977.
However, the last of those came with Jacques Villeneuve behind the wheel in 1997.
The British-based team finished rock bottom in the constructors’ standings in the past two seasons, and in 2019 scored only one point from Robert Kubica’s 10th-place finish.
Storied names have driven for the team, including multiple world champions Alain Prost, Nelson Piquet and Ayrton Senna.
British world champions Nigel Mansell and Damon Hill helped the team become hugely popular with home fans.
Williams have won 114 races, taken 128 pole positions and is the third-longest standing team in the history of the series.
“We have been in this sport for more than four decades. We are incredibly proud of our track record and the legacy we leave behind,” Claire Williams said.
The new firm had wanted her to stay on but Williams said the family “will leave on” regardless.
“This may be the end of an era for Williams as a family-run team, but it is the beginning of a new era for Williams Racing and we wish them much success in the future,” she said.
