James Vowles, the principal of Williams Formula 1 Team, will remain at the Yas Marina Circuit following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on December 7, 2025. Instead of returning to Europe, he plans to compete in the Gulf 12 Hours taking place the subsequent weekend.
Gulf 12 Hours Participation
Vowles will race alongside noted drivers such as Alexander West, Mark Sansom, and Marco Pulcini. Together, they will pilot a McLaren 720S GT3, prepared by the renowned team Garage 59.
Vowles’s Racing Background
Expressing excitement about the event, Vowles stated, “The chance to put on a race helmet again is something I relish.” He has previously collaborated with Garage 59 during the 2022 Asian Le Mans Series, also in a McLaren.
- James Vowles joined Williams as team principal in 2023.
- He has a background as strategy chief at Mercedes.
- His last driving experience was in 2022.
About the Gulf 12 Hours
Since its inception in 2012, the Gulf 12 Hours has evolved into a prestigious event in international GT racing. Set just after the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, this race is an annual highlight for teams and fans alike.
- 15th edition scheduled for December 14, 2025.
- The race consists of a split format: an eight-hour segment followed by a four-hour sprint.
- GT3 and the new GTX1 class will feature high-performance vehicles from brands like Ferrari and Lamborghini.
Race Format and Fan Experience
The Gulf 12 Hours incorporates a two-hour break between segments, allowing spectators unique access to the pit lane and interactions with leading drivers. This break serves as an opportunity for teams to reset strategies while maintaining the completed laps’ standings moving into the second part of the race.
Garage 59: A Leading GT Team
Founded in 2016, Garage 59 is a British GT outfit known for its successful campaigns with various manufacturers, including McLaren and Ferrari. The team has secured titles across numerous competitions such as the GT World Challenge Europe and the Le Mans 24 Hours.
- First major title: Blancpain GT Series Endurance Cup in 2016.
- Future focus: World Endurance Championship in 2026 with two McLaren 720S GT3s.
With Vowles at the helm and his return to driving, the Gulf 12 Hours is set to be an exciting event on the motorsport calendar.
