James Vowles has signed a new contract as Williams team principal.

The move to secure the 45-year-old on what is described as a “long-term” deal is a vote of confidence in Vowles’ leadership since he joined Williams from Mercedes in 2023.

Williams declined to reveal either the length of Vowles’ former contract, or his new one.

Vowles was signed by owners Dorilton Capital with a remit to return Williams to the front. The team lie fifth in the championship after 10 of 24 races this season, having already scored more points than the previous three years combined.

Vowles was also key in persuading Carlos Sainz to join Williams for this year, rather than Sauber/Audi or Alpine, after Ferrari decided to replace the Spaniard with Lewis Hamilton.

Williams and Dorilton chairman Matthew Savage said: “James has brought experience, energy and strategic leadership to the task of restoring Williams to the top step of the podium.

“We aren’t there yet but you can sense the momentum we are building at Grove and are excited about what lies ahead.”

Vowles, who was previously Mercedes’ head of strategy, said: “Williams has felt like home from the moment I walked through the door.

“This iconic team has already given me some incredible memories and we are all united in our ambition to build on our legacy and win World Championships again.

“Over the past two years we have focused on fixing the foundations, and now have a platform to go for glory in the years to come.”