Williams parts with team principal Simon Roberts

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Williams Racing team boss Simon Roberts will leave the Grove-based outfit as a result of an internal restructure, the British outfit announced on Wednesday.

Roberts joined Williams in June 2020, having previously held the role of chief operations officer at McLaren.

The Briton's appointment came before its sale to new owner Dorilton Capital, at a time when the team was seeking to strengthen its executive base.

But upon Williams' acquisition by Dorilton, Roberts took over the running of the outfit from former deputy team principal Claire Williams.

"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 Williams CEO Jost Capito.

Read also: Capito hopes to keep Russell at Williams

Simon Roberts commented: "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."

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

Earlier this year, Williams recruited former VW motorsport engineer François-Xavier Demaison as the team's new technical director, but the Frenchman will now take accountability for both trackside and engineering.

The Team Principal responsibilities will be taken on by Jost Capito.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.