Formula 1 News: Team Principals Discuss Development, Leadership, and Driver Performance
Silverstone, UK – In a recent press conference, Formula 1 team principals Mike Krack (Aston Martin), James Vowles (Williams), Andrea Stella (McLaren), and Jonathan Witt (Toro Rosso) shared their insights on various topics, including team growth, driver performance, and leadership.
Team Growth and Infrastructure
Mike Krack discussed the changes he has witnessed at Aston Martin since joining the team, highlighting the significant growth and investment in infrastructure and personnel. “When I joined, I went into the old brick house of the former Jordan factory… the headcount has almost doubled since. So I think this makes us very attractive for the future,” Krack said.
Driver Performance
Andrea Stella addressed Lando Norris’ performance, emphasizing that the driver has the potential to win world championships. Stella acknowledged that Norris has made mistakes but attributed some of the responsibility to the team. “We definitely have something to clean on the start itself, which is not only driver, it’s also a team responsibility,” Stella said.
James Vowles discussed Logan Sargeant’s performance, praising the driver’s mental resilience and progress over the last 18 months. Vowles noted that Sargeant has improved in building up to the weekend, finding the limit, and using available tools. “He’s matured a lot as a driver… he’s able to deal with the pressure and what comes at you much, much better as a result of it now,” Vowles said.
Leadership and Development
The team principals also touched on leadership, with Mike Krack emphasizing the importance of leading by example. “You cannot expect people to come at 7:30 in the morning if you come at 9:30 in the morning. You cannot expect people to be open and transparent if you are not,” Krack said.
Andrea Stella discussed the team’s approach to development, distinguishing it from their strategy approach. “I don’t think it’s a one-to-one transfer of what could be a safe approach to strategy to what is a safe approach to development. We try and be considerate… a robust approach could be more rewarding than trying to gamble and go for the jackpot all the time,” Stella said.
New Team Principal Appointment
Finally, the team principals welcomed Jonathan Wheatley’s appointment as the new team principal of the Piranha Club next year. James Vowles congratulated Wheatley, praising his diligence and leadership skills, and wished him all the best in his new role.
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