Williams raid Volkswagen again for latest top-level appointment

Francois-Xavier Demaison — Photo: © LAT Images

Williams

Williams raid Volkswagen again for latest top-level appointment

Williams has appointed François-Xavier Demaison as technical director

Ian Parkes

Tuesday 23 March 2021 11:27 Updated: 11:34

Williams has continued its recruitment drive by appointing François-Xavier Demaison as technical director.

Known as 'FX', Demaison previously worked with new Williams CEO Jost Capito at Volkswagen Motorsport.

During his decade with Volkswagen, Demaison was responsible for the technical development of the ground-breaking and technology-leading ID.R electric race car that achieved multiple records at Pikes Peak and the Nürburgring.

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Demaison was also instrumental in the Polo R WRC's dominance in the World Rally Championship which won all three titles from 2013 to 2016.

Prior to joining Volkswagen in 2011, Demaison worked with Renault and Peugeot on Formula 1, Touring Car and World Rally projects before being appointed as chief rally engineer for the Subaru World Rally team.

Demaison represents the latest high-level recruitment by Williams as the team bids to return to the front of the grid after a lengthy period of languishing at the back.

Demaison, who will take overall responsibility for the technical operation of the business including design and aerodynamics, said: “I am really looking forward to joining Williams Racing as they begin an exciting journey to turn their performance around.

"It’s going to be a great challenge, but one that I am eager to start. They have a great team of talented people, and I hope I can work with them and the senior management team to help carve out a direction for the future, to help the team achieve its ambitions.”

Hailing Demaison's appointment, Capito said: “We are delighted to welcome FX to the team. I have seen his technical capabilities first hand, and his sporting successes speak for themselves.

"Bringing in someone of his calibre to our already experienced technical team will help drive the future direction of our operation and strengthen our team.

"I have no doubt that his knowledge will contribute to us taking another important step towards our ambitions of winning again.

"At Williams, we have an exciting challenge ahead of us, and I look forward to seeing FX contribute as we continue on this journey.”