Paddy Lowe's departure as Williams' Chief technical officer was confirmed on Tuesday. (Photo: AFP/Justin TALLIS) |
Lowe had been on a leave of absence since the week before the F1 season got underway after a series of production issues delayed the roll-out of the new FW42 for pre-season testing.
That followed a bitterly disappointing 2018 season that saw Williams finish last in the constructors' championship.
"After a period of careful reflection I have reached the decision that I will not return to work at Williams," said Lowe in a team statement.
Williams are the only team yet to register a point in this season's championship after eight races.
The British team, which has won nine constructors' and seven drivers' world titles, has drafted in co-founder and former technical chief Patrick Head on a consultancy basis.
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