Williams has named Axel Kruse as its new chief operations director, marking a significant leadership change ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Kruse will officially start on September 1, transitioning from his previous role as chief operating officer at rival team Sauber after 15 years with the Swiss outfit.
Kruse’s Previous Experience and Return to Williams
This is not Kruse’s first time connected with Williams; he previously worked as a BMW engineer during the German manufacturer’s engine partnership with the team, a period spanning 2000 to 2005. Notably, Williams secured second place in the constructors‘ championship in both 2002 and 2003 during that time. His familiarity with the team’s legacy and culture positions him well to help drive future success.
Welcoming Words from Axel Kruse and Team Leadership
Expressing enthusiasm, Kruse said,
“I am thrilled to be joining Williams Racing and can’t wait to get started.”
He added,
“Williams is an iconic Formula 1 team with huge ambition and momentum, and I look forward to working with everyone at Grove to deliver success on track.”
Reflecting on his earlier experiences, he remarked,
“As a young engineer I saw first-hand the professionalism and passion at the team as we finished second in the constructors’ championship – there is unfinished business, and the target must be to finish first.”
Team Progress Amid Leadership Transition
Williams has faced challenges in recent years, including finishing last in the 2022 constructors‘ standings. However, in 2025, the team has shown clear improvement and currently sits fifth in the championship after 13 rounds. This progress highlights the impact of ongoing organizational changes and investments. Williams team principal James Vowles welcomed Kruse’s appointment, explaining,
“I am excited to welcome Axel to Williams Racing as we continue to invest in the people, technology and infrastructure needed to achieve our goal of returning to the front of the grid.”
Vowles further stated,
“Axel is the latest top talent to join us from within the F1 paddock and will continue the important work started by Fred to make our operations truly championship-level.”
Fred Brousseau’s Departure and Reflection on Transformation
Kruse replaces Frederic Brousseau, who will return to Canada after joining Williams in April 2023 following a 26-year career at aerospace company Pratt & Whitney. Brousseau reflected on his time at Williams, saying,
“Having actively embarked on our transformation journey over the past two years, we’re now starting to see clear signs of progress – both from a business results and track performance perspective.”
He added,
“With this sustainable positive momentum now in place throughout the organisation, the time feels right for me to return home and begin the next chapter of my journey.”
Expressing gratitude, Brousseau said,
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together and, above all, grateful for the passion and dedication of the people — they are the true heart of Williams. Being welcomed into this team and the world of Formula 1 has been a genuine privilege.”
Additional Leadership Changes Strengthen Technical Team
Alongside Kruse’s appointment, Williams has promoted Matt Harman to technical director – engineering. Harman joined the team last year from Alpine and will play a crucial role in supporting the team’s technical development and on-track performance.
Outlook for Williams Heading Into 2026
With Axel Kruse stepping into a pivotal operations role and the ongoing restructuring of its leadership team, Williams is making bold strides toward reclaiming its competitive edge in Formula 1. The combination of experienced personnel with a renewed vision aims to build on recent gains and push the historic British team back to the front of the grid in upcoming seasons, including the highly anticipated 2026 campaign.