F1 head of communications steps down

Formula One's head of communications, Normal Howell has stepped down from his role; less than two years after taking on the job.

Howell is a former F1 reporter for the Sunday Times, and he also headed communications for McLaren back in 1990 before then joining the FIA and then Formula One in the same sort of job.

He then took a job in charge of the Red Bulletin, which is a bulletin powered by Red Bull - before Liberty Media snapped him up in February 2017 as director of global communications.

"As we embark on an exciting new chapter in Formula 1's history, Norman brings a wealth of knowledge and perspective to the new enhanced leadership team," F1 commercial boss Sean Bratches said at the time of his appointment.

"His extensive and demonstrated experience leading communications strategies for many of the world's most prestigious motorsport brands, together with his background as a journalist and social media specialist, align well with our objectives to broaden Formula 1's appeal and proactively engage the marketplace to elevate the exciting changes that we are envisioning and implementing."

Howell leaked the news on his LinkedIn account last week.

"I will take a short break and some thinking before plunging headlong once more into the very exciting and ever-changing world of content communications," Howell added.