James Vowles was one of the key figures behind Mercedes’ era of dominance, guiding the team to eight consecutive constructors’ championship titles. However, in 2023, Toto Wolff‘s former right-hand man decided to take the next big step of becoming a team principal. He joined Williams and was hoping to take the team to new heights. Unfortunately, upon moving to one of the most historic teams in F1 history, Vowles realized just how dreadful the situation was.
Williams is one of the biggest names in F1, although it may be an unknown fact for newer fans. The team which was founded by Sir Frank Williams in 1977 went on to win nine constructors’ championships and helped their drivers to seven world titles. However, at the turn of the century, their downfall began.
Today, Williams is a backmarker. The drivers struggle comprehensively to get into the points, and it doesn’t seem like they are headed towards the front anytime in the near future. According to Vowles, the reason behind this is simply “years of underinvestment”.
Former Mercedes chief admits he is in a fortunate position
Vowles was once regarded as the man who would replace Toto Wolff as team principal of Mercedes in F1. Those claims didn’t materialize as we all know today, but he was promoted to the role of Motorsport Strategy Director in 2019. However, he left the Brackley-based outfit because he was felt too comfortable at the team he was in since 2010.
Upon joining Williams, however, his comfort turned into constant stress. He saw how underdeveloped the mechanical and technical side of things were at Williams, but admits that he is in a strong position to rectify the mistakes made by the people who were in charge before him.
“Twenty years of underinvestment is why we are where we are today,” Vowles said, as quoted by F1i.com. “But I’m in a fortunate position that my predecessors weren’t. Where we have investment, significant investment, behind us.
Vowles comments came after yet another woeful performance by Williams at the 2023 Canadian GP. However, Wolff’s former aide insists that they are headed in the right direction for the time being, at least financially.
James Vowles insists Williams has enough money now
Vowles joined Williams to take them back to the top. They have a lot of money coming in from Dorilton Capital, who bought them for $179,500,000 in 2020. Admittedly, they’ve had a rocky start with Jost Capito’s failed appointment.
But, now, with Vowles at the helm, they seem to be stable behind the scenes. Williams also secured a multi-year deal with Gulf Oil, and extended former Red Bull driver Alex Albon’s contract.
You’re with us everywhere we go. 💙
Thanks for your wonderful support through the ups and downs, team 👏#WeAreWilliams pic.twitter.com/pN2qTr6a7S
— Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) June 24, 2023
“There is a strong desire to have Williams return back to a competitive position,” he added. “But to do that requires investment. So the money’s available and ready.”
Nevertheless, Vowles is also wary about the fact that a lot of money that is coming into Williams is being spent on basic things, that should have been taken care of years ago. Still, he is adamant that he is committed to the future of this historic team. Vowles wants to oversee the team’s return to the front.
