Susie Wolff to Continue as Williams Development Driver

Susie Wolff (L) was formerly Susie Stoddart before marrying Toto Wolff (R) in October 2011. Toto has left for the Mercedes F1 team, but Susie has stayed with Williams. At least no one can complain of nepotism now.

Despite her husband Toto Wolff leaving the team to go to Mercedes, the Williams F1 Team announced that Development Driver Susie Wolff will be continuing her role with the team during the 2013 season.

Susie joined the Williams F1 Team in April 2012 and has played a valuable role in helping to develop the Williams-Renault FW34 and FW35. Susie's level of involvement will increase during the 2013 season, with an increased program in the team's simulator combined with a greater level of in-car testing. Susie will be the first to get behind the wheel of the FW35 when she drives the car at Idiada next month, and will do the majority of aerodynamic testing this season. Prior to joining the Williams F1 Team Susie spent seven seasons driving in DTM and was twice nominated for the prestigious BRDC Young Driver of the Year Award.

Speaking about Susie's continued role with the team Mike Coughlan, Technical Director, commented: "Susie has proved herself to be a valuable addition to our driver roster and her feedback during simulator sessions is second to none. As a result we will be stepping up her role this year and I'm looking forward to the progress we can make with Susie's input in conjunction with that of Pastor and Valtteri."

Speaking about her role with the Williams F1 Team in 2013 Susie said, ‘‘I really enjoy my time working with Williams and feel very much at home here. Last year was a valuable experience and I certainly feel that I've developed a lot as a driver. Increasing my role this year will further this progression and I can't wait to get behind the wheel of the FW35 for the first time next month. I'm showing that women can play a role at the top level of motorsport and would like to thank Sir Frank Williams and the whole of the technical team for the trust they continue to show in me."