Ahead of the 2023 Formula 1 season, Williams has announced the departure of Jost Capito after two years at the helm of the Grove-based team as CEO and team boss. Technical Director François-Xavier Demaison is also stepping down. It is said that both team bosses are now headed to Sauber, soon to be Audi. The Grove-based drivers were quick to react.
At 64 years of age, Jost Capito is leaving the Williams team two years after his arrival as Team Principal. François-Xavier Demaison is also stepping down as Technical Director.
“It has been a great privilege to lead Williams Racing over the past two seasons and to lay the foundations for the renewal of this great team. I look forward to seeing the team continue on its path to success,” said Jost Capito.
Matthew Savage, Chairman of Dorilton Capital: “We would like to thank Jost for his hard work and dedication as we embarked on a major transformation process to begin the journey of reviving Williams Racing.”
The Chairman was quick to mention that Jost was due to retire, deflecting the rumour that he was Audi bound to a competitor’s outfit.
“We are grateful that Jost agreed to postpone his retirement to take on this challenge and now he will hand over the reins for the next part of this step-by-step process. We would also like to thank FX [Demaison] for his contribution and wish him all the best for his future.”
The team explained that it would announce the names of the new team boss and technical director in due course.
Williams drivers react
Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant paid tribute to Jost Capito, who was until then Williams’ team boss. The departure of the German, who succeeded Claire Williams at the head of the team in February 2021, was announced on Monday. Technical director FX Demaison, who joined Capito shortly afterwards, is also leaving the team.
“We have only spent a year working together, but in that time you have not only been a team manager, but also a great friend,” driver Alex Albon said on social media.
“Thank you Jost for your trust in me this year and all the support that came with it. Wishing you all the best for the future.”
Logan Sargeant, meanwhile, wrote: “Jost, thank you for having faith in me throughout my time at the academy and for helping me on my way to F1.”
“Jost has given me the opportunity to show my potential and race in Formula 2. He has been a great team leader, and I wish him the best in whatever the future holds!”
