Former Verstappen engineer has started working at Williams.

      Michael Manning, former control systems engineer for Max Verstappen's car, has joined the Williams team.

      Manning worked at Red Bull Racing since 2011, but ended his collaboration with the team after last year's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. After completing a mandatory six-month sabbatical during which he could not work in Formula 1, Manning has taken on the role of chief race engineer at Williams.

      Michael Manning announced this on social media and specifically emphasized that he is happy to resume working with Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz, whom he knew from his time at Red Bull.

      "I am pleased to announce that I have joined the Williams team as chief engineer," wrote Michael Manning. "Williams is one of the most legendary teams in Formula 1 history. It has nine Constructors' Championships and seven Drivers' Championships, so it is rightly considered one of the icons of our sport.

      But what attracted me most was the future of the team. The atmosphere in Grove is genuinely focused on bringing Williams back to the front, and I look forward to doing everything I can to ensure that the great work being done at the base translates into flawless results on the track.

      It is especially nice to join the team at such an important moment in its history, as Williams prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

      Additionally, I am very happy to work with Carlos and Alex again, as our paths have crossed before. I look forward to starting work and contributing to a new chapter in the history of this legendary team."