Williams F1 team boss James Vowles takes part in Abu Dhabi endurance race

James Vowles extends his Abu Dhabi week with a driving stint

While the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix concludes the F1 season for most, Williams team principal James Vowles will remain at Yas Marina Circuit to participate in the Gulf 12 Hours endurance race.

From pit wall to cockpit

Vowles, who joined Williams as team principal in early 2023 after a long career at Mercedes, will switch roles from team strategist to driver. He is competing alongside privateer racers in the amateur category, continuing his personal passion for motor racing beyond Formula 1.

Competing in the Gulf 12 Hours

The Gulf 12 Hours is a prestigious endurance event held annually at Yas Marina. It attracts professional and amateur drivers alike, featuring GT3 cars from brands such as Ferrari, Aston Martin, and Mercedes-AMG. Vowles is expected to drive a Mercedes-AMG GT3, bringing his experience full circle after years of success leading Mercedes’ F1 strategy team.

Balancing management and competition

In previous interviews, Vowles has described racing as a way to stay grounded and connected to the sporting side of motorsport, beyond management duties. His participation in the event underscores his continued enthusiasm for competition and technical excellence.

“Racing reminds me why we all fell in love with motorsport in the first place,” Vowles said earlier this year.

Author’s summary

James Vowles will stay in Abu Dhabi after the F1 finale to race in the Gulf 12 Hours, merging his leadership role at Williams with his ongoing passion for driving.

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