Mercedes re-hire chief who oversaw Lewis Hamilton’s success in desperate bid to bring back F1 glory

MERCEDES have followed up Toto Wolff’s new three-year deal by signing technical director James Allison to a new long-term contract.

Wolff, who is three-way owner of the team along with Mercedes-Benz and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has recently committed his future to the team.

Getty Images – GettyJames Allison has committed his future to Mercedes[/caption]

Lewis Hamilton is bidding to return to winning ways next seasonRex

And now the Silver Arrows have moved to tie-down his chief designer ahead of another major rule change planned for 2026.

Wolff said: “I am thrilled that James has committed his long-term future to the team.

“Put simply, he is the most impressive technical leader in our sport.

“His gladiator spirit, along with his knowledge, experience, and determination, make him second-to-none. His influence and impact, however, goes so much further than that.

“Since joining in 2017, he has been a key ally and sparring partner for me personally.

“We can challenge each other openly and honestly; an embodiment of the ‘tough love’ culture of the team that is vital in helping us all perform at our very best.

“Most importantly though, James is a true friend you can rely on, not only in times of success but in difficult moments too.

“It has been a pleasure to work with him over the past seven years and I look forward to doing so for many more to come.”

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Allison joined the team in 2017 as technical director and oversaw Lewis Hamilton‘s successful spell with the team where he won four drivers’ titles and five consecutive constructors’ championships.

After a brief spell working on INEOS’ America’s Cup project he returned to the F1 team in April last year to cure the team’s dreadful performance.

He has now been ringfenced for the F1 operation as Mercedes try to catch runaway leaders, Red Bull.

Allison said: “F1 has brought me a lot of good fortune, but none greater than answering Toto’s call to join Mercedes in 2017.

“It is a great privilege to continue this adventure, working alongside brilliant colleagues and fighting together for championship success.”

PAToto Wolff is thrilled to have tied Allison down to a longer deal[/caption]