Toto Wolff Leaves Williams For Mercedes

Williams' Executive Director Toto Wolff is leaving the Grove-based outfit with immediate efect to take up on a new role with Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd. The 41 year old Austrian, who is understood to be a 16% shareholder in Williams F1, was believed to be next in line to take over from Sir Frank Williams when he retires.

Wolff relinquishes his seat on the the Board of Directors at Williams Grand Prix Engineering Limited, but will retain his shareholding.

"I would like to thank Toto for his hard work, dedication and commitment to the team during his time as a Director of the Company," Sir Frank Williams said. "He was a key support to me as Executive Director last season, deputising at a number of races when I was unable to attend. However, positions such as the one offered to him by Mercedes do not come around often."

"Toto has a long history with them and I certainly was not going to stand in the way of him accepting this once in a lifetime opportunity. Toto will retain his shareholding in Williams and will always have a place at Grove, but make no mistake we will fight him hard on the racetrack."

"I am sure he will be a strong asset for Mercedes and on behalf of the whole team I would like to wish him the best of luck in his new role. I'm lucky to have a very professional group of people around me and the Company's Executive Committee will continue the work they have been doing to ensure a successful future for the business."

Toto Wolff, one of Williams' Executive Directors, will be leaving the Company with immediate effect to take up a new role with Mercedes-Benz
— Williams F1 Team (@WilliamsF1Team) januari 21, 2013

Read the full story regarding today's announcement here: williamsf1.com/news/view/2328
— Williams F1 Team (@WilliamsF1Team) januari 21, 2013

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