Luis Perez-Sala has been appointed as the new team principal of Hispania Racing following the departure of Colin Kolles.
Spaniard Luis Perez-Sala takes over from Kolles as team principal
Luis Perez-Sala has been appointed as the new team principal of Hispania Racing following the departure of former boss Colin Kolles.
Perez-Sala, who has considerable experience in motorsport across several categories including two years with in Formula One with Minardi in 1988 and 1989, replaces Kolles after the German spent two years at the helm.
Most recently, Perez-Sala has competed in Spanish touring car and GT championships, as well as working as a lecturer, commentator and technical analyst for different media channels.
Primarily, Perez-Sala has helped to bring through a number of young Spanish drivers via a specialised programme in Catalunya.
After taking on an advisory role at HRT in July, the 52-year-old from Barcelona has now assumed the key position within the team.
Perez-Sala said: "This is an honour but also a great responsibility. I joined the team as an advisor to the new owners and to contribute with my experience in any possible way.
Rewards
"We had to establish a base from which to grow slowly and we are now seeing the first rewards of that work.
"But we mustn't lose our perspective and be aware that assuming responsibilities, such as designing the car or moving the headquarters to Spain, are huge tasks and we still have a lot of work ahead.
"We must be patient and keep in mind that we cannot expect to achieve great success in the short term, but we can take a team forward that we can all feel proud of.
"The simple fact Spain has a team in the pinnacle of motorsports is already a great feat."
With the team now based in Spain, and with Pedro de la Rosa named as one of the drivers for next season, the appointment of Perez-Sala continues the Spanish theme.
Chief executive Saul Ruiz de Marcos said: "The decision was an easy one given his knowledge and his way of doing things. It is the best decision we could make."
