Tech chief Paddy Lowe leaves Williams with immediate effect

Having been on a leave of absence for close to four months, Paddy Lowe is leaving Williams and stepping down from the board of directors “with immediate effect”.

After a challenging pre-season, which saw the team miss their shakedown and the opening two days of testing because of delays to the new car’s production, it was announced Lowe would be taking a leave of absence for personal reasons.

Ahead of this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix, which Williams head to bottom of the constructors’ championship without a point on the board, Lowe’s departure has been confirmed in a statement.

“After a period of careful reflection I have reached the decision that I will not return to work at Williams,” said Lowe.

“I wish all my previous colleagues the very best to meet the challenges ahead, which I am sure they will do. I would especially like to thank the Williams fans who are so supportive.”

Deputy Team Principal Claire Williams said: "We understand and respect the decision Paddy has reached and wish him well for the future."

Lowe was in his second stint with Williams, having begun his F1 career with the team in the late 80s. He enjoyed title-winning success with McLaren and Mercedes before re-joining the Grove-based team in March 2017.