Williams Team Principal James Vowles to Race at Gulf 12 Hours in Abu Dhabi
Williams Team Principal James Vowles is set to return to competitive racing, participating in the Gulf 12 Hours endurance race at Yas Marina on December 14 with Garage 59 in a McLaren 720S GT3. This marks his first race since taking charge of Williams in 2023, showcasing a unique blend of leadership and a deep passion for motorsport.
James Vowles, the Team Principal of Williams Racing, is set to return to competitive racing for the first time since taking charge of the F1 team in 2023. He will participate in the Gulf 12 Hours endurance race at Yas Marina on December 14, joining Garage 59 in a McLaren 720S GT3.
Why it matters:
Vowles' decision to return to the cockpit highlights a unique blend of leadership and passion for motorsport. It offers a rare glimpse into an F1 team principal's hands-on involvement in racing beyond their managerial duties, potentially inspiring his team and demonstrating a deep understanding of the competitive demands faced by drivers.
The Details:
- Event and Team: Vowles will race in the Gulf 12 Hours at Yas Marina Circuit, held shortly after the F1 season finale.
- Co-drivers: He will share the Garage 59-run McLaren 720S GT3 with 2024 Gulf 12 Hours Pro-Am winner Alexander West, and International GT Open regulars Mark Sansom and Marco Pulcini.
- Return to Racing: This marks Vowles' first competitive race outing since assuming the role of Williams Team Principal in 2023.
- Previous Experience: Vowles has a history with Garage 59, having raced with them in the 2022 Asian Le Mans Series. He also had a one-off touring car appearance in 2025 and has conducted several test outings this year to prepare.
- Team's Perspective: Garage 59 Team Principal Andrew Kirkaldy expressed excitement about Vowles' return, praising his professionalism, strategic knowledge, and contribution during their previous collaboration.
- Race Format: The Gulf 12 Hours is an annual GT event, established in 2012, featuring an eight-hour opening segment followed by a two-hour break (allowing pitlane access for fans) and a four-hour sprint finish.
What's next:
Vowles' participation in the Gulf 12 Hours will be an interesting side note following the intense F1 season. While purely a personal endeavor, it reinforces his deep-rooted connection to racing and could subtly contribute to team morale and understanding within Williams. It also offers a refreshing perspective on F1 leadership, showing that even at the highest level, the love for driving remains strong.