A key architect of Mercedes’ recent dominance in Formula 1 is set to leave the team. John Owen, the director of car design, will depart his role mid-season as the sport prepares for a major shift in technical regulations.
Owen has been a central figure in the Brackley-based squad’s success, contributing to nine constructors’ championships across his tenure. He first joined the operation in 2007 and rose through the ranks, overseeing the design of the cars that secured eight consecutive constructors’ titles from 2014 to 2021. Known for his technical prowess and low public profile, Owen’s focus remained squarely on engineering performance.
The team confirmed Owen will assist with the transition before taking a break from the sport. He is not currently linked to a move to a rival outfit. Giacomo Tortora, the current engineering director, will be promoted to fill the director of car design position.
Owen’s departure coincides with a period of significant change for the grid. On Tuesday, the Audi F1 team formally presented the livery for its debut car, the R26, at an event in Berlin. The German manufacturer, which has taken over the Sauber operation, enters the championship with a clear long-term objective.
Team leadership outlined an ambitious but structured plan, targeting championship contention by 2030. Principal Jonathan Wheatley emphasized a realistic and humble approach to the formidable challenge of competing with established front-runners.
“The goal is to win, but you don’t just arrive and beat teams like Ferrari, Red Bull, and Mercedes because of your name,” Wheatley stated. “You need a deliberate plan. Ours is to become a challenger, then a competitor, and then a champion.”
The new season is scheduled to commence in Melbourne on March 8th, following a series of pre-season tests in Barcelona and Bahrain.