Mercedes chief designer John Owen will leave the Formula 1 team later this year after nearly two decades with the Brackley-based outfit. The 52-year-old has been part of the organisation since 2007, spanning its Honda, Brawn and Mercedes eras. Owen played a key role in multiple championship-winning campaigns and will remain during the transition to his successor before taking gardening leave.
Key figure in title success
Owen was instrumental in the team’s dominant years. Under his tenure, the outfit won one drivers’ and constructors’ title as Brawn in 2009, followed by seven drivers’ and eight constructors’ championships with Mercedes between 2014 and 2021. His work helped shape one of the most successful periods in Formula 1 history.
Mercedes statement
In an official statement, Mercedes confirmed Owen would depart “after assuring the transition to his successor” and then begin a period of gardening leave. No details were given about his next career move.
New structure announced
Mercedes revealed that engineering director Giacomo Tortora will step up as director of car design, working under deputy technical director Simone Resta, who will oversee the group.
Career journey
Before joining Mercedes, Owen worked at Sauber, becoming senior aerodynamicist in 2004. He began his career at the now-defunct racing-car manufacturer Reynard, building his reputation as a leading technical figure in motorsport.
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