James Allison will continue his F1 career alongside Mercedes, having signed a new long-term contract.
Allison began his partnership with the Brackley-based team in 2017 as Technical Director. After a short period, from the end of 2021 to April 2023, in which he took on the role of Chief Technical Officer at INEOS Britannia in the America’s Cup, he has consolidated his loyalty to the team by explaining:
“F1 has brought me a lot of good fortune, but none greater than answering Toto’s call to join Mercedes in 2017. It is a great privilege to continue this adventure, working alongside brilliant colleagues and fighting together for championship success.”
This news, alongside the extension of Toto Wolff’s contract until 2026, represents a focal point and strength for the team’s leadership. Allison told Autosport:
“I think it is definitely helpful for a team to know that it has stability. It is certainly a big deal for us to know that we have that stability with Toto, and I hope in a smaller way that the folk here will be reassured to know that that’s the case.”
“Then, less close to home, it helps with our partners as well to know that that is the case and it means that everyone looking at us from the outside can see that there is stability and commitment to hoping that the team will be able to work solidly and enjoy good success in the future.”
Photo credits Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team
The Mercedes Team Principal has spoken words of gratitude and praise for Allison, explaining how the partnership will benefit the fight for the World Championship title.
“I am thrilled that James has committed his long-term future to the team. Put simply, he is the most impressive technical leader in our sport.”
“His gladiator spirit, along with his knowledge, experience, and determination, make him second-to-none. His influence and impact, however, go so much further than that.”
Wolff, also a Mercedes shareholder, highlighted the key strengths of the former Ferrari Technical director:
“Since joining in 2017, he has been a key ally and sparring partner for me personally. We can challenge each other openly and honestly; an embodiment of the ‘tough love’ culture of the team that is vital in helping us all perform at our very best.
“Most importantly though, James is a true friend you can rely on, not only in times of success but in difficult moments too. It has been a pleasure to work with him over the past seven years and I look forward to doing so for many more to come,” he concluded.
