Williams names François-Xavier Demaison as new technical director

Williams has continued its overhaul of personnel and announced a new technical director in François-Xavier Demaison.

Demaison worked with Williams CEO Jost Capito at Volkswagen previously and will now fill the role left by Paddy Lowe back in mid-2019.

Known by many as ‘FX’, he led development of Volkswagen’s ID.R electric car that claimed records at Pikes Peak and the Nordschleife. He also played a huge role in VW’s World Rally Championship successes, with the Polo R WRC taking four consecutive title sweeps between 2013 and 2016.

Demaison will now lead design and aerodynamic development within the team and report directly to Capito.

“I am really looking forward to joining Williams Racing, as they begin an exciting journey to turn their performance around,” Demaison said.

“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.”

2021 will be the first full season for Williams without a member of the eponymous family at the helm.

The 2020 Italian Grand Prix was the final race for the family in charge of the Grove team, with Claire and Frank Williams stepping down from their respective roles after the sale of the team to Dorilton Captial.

“We are delighted to welcome FX to the team,” Capito said of the appointment.

“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.”