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Williams Rejects Guardian Ownership Claims and Pledges Court Fight

The team framed the dispute as active multi‑jurisdiction litigation that could affect governance and sponsor confidence.

Overview

  • James Vowles said on Friday that The Guardian’s report is false and that Williams will contest the allegations in court.
  • The dispute stems from a wider legal fight in which Dorilton sued former CMO Claudia Schwarz in May 2023 for $6.9 million in alleged false expenses and Schwarz later added counterclaims that name Peter de Putron.
  • Dorilton denies that de Putron exercises effective control of Williams while The Guardian reported Schwarz’s allegation that he has political links to the Conservative Party.
  • Vowles said the racing operation remains focused and comfortable with its values and personnel despite the media coverage and ongoing litigation.
  • The case, which spans New York and Florida courts and has a trial set for June 2027, raises broader questions about governance and reputational risk for privately owned F1 teams and their commercial partners.