Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes team have been dealt a serious blow ahead of the new season with the impending departure of chief strategist James Vowles to become team principal of Williams. Mercedes boss Wolff paid tribute to his outgoing chief strategist, by saying: ‘James has been a highly valued member of our team in his role as motorsport strategy director, playing an integral part in our success in recent years,’ said Wolff. ‘I cannot wait to start with Williams Racing,’ said Vowles. ‘It’s an honour to join a team with such an incredibly rich heritage. I am grateful for everything (team principal and CEO) Toto (Wolff) and the team have provided.

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