Bratches to step down as F1 commercial chief

Formula 1 has confirmed that Sean Bratches will step down from his role as the sport's managing director of commercial operations at the end of January.

The future of the American has been uncertain for some time, however, it has been specified that Bratches will continue as an advisor.

Bratches took on his role in F1 in 2017 when Liberty Media completed its takeover of the commercial rights of F1. 

He worked alongside Chase Carey and Ross Brawn as part of the new senior management structure for F1, handling duties to do with the promotion of the sport and maintaining its status as a global entertainment platform.

A statement from F1 reads: “After three years in the role, Sean has decided to return to the United States to be closer to his family and begin his next chapter.

"Following Sean’s departure, the majority of his direct reports will report into Chase Carey, Chairman and CEO, Formula 1.”

Speaking about his time spent in F1, Bratches said: "The past three years at Formula 1 have been an incredible journey, one which I have enjoyed thoroughly.

“I want to personally thank the team at F1 for their extraordinary efforts and dedication, they are the best of the best and I am confident they will continue to serve fans and deliver on the strategy we have set in the years ahead.

“I am proud that I leave Formula 1 in a better position than when I joined in 2017 and I know that the foundation we have put in place as a team will continue to serve our fans around the world and reach new audiences.”

Carey added: “I want to thank Sean on behalf of everyone at Formula 1 for the leadership, passion and expertise he has given to the business over the past three years.

"Sean has transformed the commercial side of Formula 1 and a testament to his work is shown in our momentum and growth as a business.

“I am pleased Sean will continue to be an advisor for us from his home in the US, he will always be part of the Formula 1 family and I look forward to his ongoing advice and counsel. I wish him all the best in his new endeavours.”