P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Toto Wolff has reflected on the rise of two fellow F1 team principals, as they transitioned from colleagues to opponents.
Toto Wolff has shared his thoughts on the ascension of two rival F1 bosses, Andy Cowell and James Vowles, both of whom worked under him at Mercedes before becoming team principals. Cowell heads up Aston Martin as CEO, taking over from Mike Krack, while Vowles leads Williams since 2023.
Cowell began his motorsport career in the late 1990s at Cosworth, contributing to engine designs and later moving to Mercedes to oversee the development of dominant power units. Wolff praised Cowell’s managerial and technical skills, recognizing his strengths as a leader in multiple areas.
Vowles, who started at BAR in 2001 before transitioning to Mercedes, was considered a candidate for a team principal role at Mercedes by Wolff. However, Wolff acknowledges that his position at the time hindered Vowles’ progression in the organization.
Both Cowell and Vowles have demonstrated their capabilities in their respective roles, showcasing strong leadership qualities stemming from their diverse experiences in Formula 1.
