What's Happening?
John Owen, the director of car design for Mercedes Formula 1, is set to leave the team after a significant tenure that contributed to the team's success. Owen joined the team in 2007 when it was under
Honda ownership and played a pivotal role in securing nine constructors' championship victories, first under the Brawn name in 2009 and then under Mercedes from 2014 to 2021. His departure marks the end of an era for Mercedes, as he will be replaced by Giacomo Tortora, who is being promoted from his current role as engineering director. Simone Resta, the deputy technical director, will oversee the car design group during this transition. Owen's departure is scheduled for later this year, after ensuring a smooth transition to his successor. His next career move has not been disclosed.
Why It's Important?
Owen's departure is significant for Mercedes as it could impact the team's competitive edge in Formula 1. His expertise and leadership have been integral to the team's dominance in the sport over the past decade. The transition to new leadership in car design could bring changes in strategy and innovation, potentially affecting Mercedes' performance in upcoming seasons. This change comes at a crucial time as Formula 1 is set to undergo new regulations in 2026, which will require teams to adapt and innovate. The internal promotion of Giacomo Tortora suggests a continuity in the team's design philosophy, but it remains to be seen how this will translate into on-track performance.
What's Next?
As Owen prepares to leave, Mercedes will focus on ensuring a seamless transition to maintain its competitive position. The team will likely continue to refine its car design strategies under the new leadership of Tortora and Resta. The upcoming regulatory changes in 2026 will be a critical test for the new design team, as they will need to adapt to new rules and maintain Mercedes' status as a leading team in Formula 1. The industry will be watching closely to see how these changes affect Mercedes' performance and whether they can continue their legacy of success.
