Jaguar TCS Racing has appointed Ian James as Team Principal, effective from 1 October, ahead of the 2025/26 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. James will also take on the role of Managing Director, JLR Motorsport, as the team prepares to enter the GEN4 era. He replaces James Barclay who has switched to McLaren as they prepare for their World Endurance Championship debut in the hypercar class.
Proven leadership joins Jaguar
Ian James brings a wealth of Formula E experience and success to Jaguar. He previously led Mercedes-EQ to four World Championship titles—two Teams’ and two Drivers’—before guiding NEOM McLaren. His leadership credentials make him a significant addition as Jaguar pushes for greater success in the all-electric series.
“I’m incredibly proud to be joining Jaguar – a brand with a unique history of technical innovation through racing and now with an exciting all-electric future ahead of it,” said James, on his new appointment. “To be able to lead the talented team at Jaguar TCS Racing to fight for success on-track while pioneering EV development through competition will be a privilege.”
Aligning motorsport with innovation
Chris Thorp, Chairman of JLR Motorsport, confirmed James will report directly to him. He emphasised the strategic importance of motorsport to JLR’s broader goals in innovation and electrification.
“Our JLR Motorsport programmes play a vital role within the business – developing and innovating technology for the future benefit of our customers and inspiring our global 40,000-strong workforce with a winning mindset,” said Thorp.
A crucial time for Jaguar and Formula E
James joins Jaguar at a pivotal moment for both the team and the championship. Formula E stands on the brink of the GEN4 era, while Jaguar prepares to integrate racing-proven hardware and software into its upcoming all-electric road cars, previewed by Type 00.
“Ian joins Jaguar TCS Racing at a particularly relevant time for the Jaguar brand – as hardware and software technology proven on-track will transfer to the next generation of Jaguar all-electric road cars previewed by Type 00 – and also for Formula E as we are only a year away from the GEN4 era of regulations,” Thorp added. “I’m looking forward to working with Ian on leading the team to further success.”
