Williams F1 team boss Simon Roberts leaves in reshuffle

Roberts has led the team for the past 12 months and played a key role in managing the Grove-based outfit through its transition of ownership to US investors Dorilton Capital last year.

Williams CEO Jost Capito will carry out the responsibilities of team principal, while technical director Francois-Xavier Demaison will take accountability for both trackside and engineering.

As part of the reshuffle, the role of team principal - or Racing Director as it is referred to within the team - will no longer exist. It is understood the change has been made to simplify and streamline the alignment between trackside and factory engineering.

Williams says the restructure “further streamlines operations as part of the long-term objectives to return Williams to the front of the grid”.

“Simon has played an integral role in managing the transition over the last 12 months and I would like to thank him for his great contribution during that time,” said Capito.

Roberts, who joined Williams after nearly 17 years at McLaren, added: “It has been a pleasure to take on the role of Team Principal following the departure of the Williams family from the sport.

“However, with the transition well underway I am looking forward to a new challenge and wish everyone in the team well for the future.”

It is not known what Roberts’ plans are following his Williams departure and whether it will involve him remaining in F1.

Williams is set to reveal its new head of engineering prior to the French Grand Prix.