Mercedes F1 team confirms James Allison as technical chief
Mercedes has finally confirmed the long expected arrival of former Renault and Ferrari man James Allison as replacement for Paddy Lowe.
Allison has the new job title of technical director, but in essence he fills Lowe’s shoes and will report directly to Toto Wolff. He will start work officially on March 1.
His appointment is a big boost for Mercedes, with some observers believing that the loss of both Lowe and Nico Rosberg would cost the team some momentum.
“It's a massive privilege to be given the trust of a position in a team that has done so spectacularly well in the past three seasons,” he said. “I am really looking forward to playing my part in helping Mercedes go from strength to strength in the coming years.”
Toto Wolff added: “Our technical team is extremely skilled at every level and at the top of its game after delivering three world championships in a row. It wasn't an easy task to find the right personality who can strengthen our experienced group of engineers, give our talented young team members the space to develop and also bring his own vision to this role. James is a sharp engineer; I think we have found the perfect guy and the right fit with our senior leaders.”
