P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The 2025 Abu Dhabi GP marks the end of the season for most involved in F1. But not Williams team principal James Vowles – who’ll be staying on to race at the Yas Marina Circuit
Williams team principal James Vowles will extend his stay in Abu Dhabi after the 2025 Formula 1 season ends to compete in the Gulf 12 Hours race at Yas Marina Circuit the following weekend. Vowles will drive a Garage 59-run McLaren 720S GT3 alongside Alexander West, Mark Sansom, and Marco Pulcini. He expressed his excitement about returning to the driver’s seat and the opportunity to race with his teammates.
Vowles has previous racing experience, including the 2022 Asian Le Mans Series with Garage 59. He will be joining the Gulf 12 Hours as a driver for the first time since becoming Williams’ team principal in 2023. The Gulf 12 Hours, established in 2012, is a prestigious GT race held at the Yas Marina Circuit, attracting top teams and drivers.
The race format includes two parts with a break in between, allowing fans pitlane access and interaction with drivers. Garage 59, known for its success in GT racing, will field the McLaren 720S GT3 for Vowles and his teammates. The team’s focus will shift to the World Endurance Championship in 2026.
