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Norbert Haug (middle) alongside Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher. ChinaFotoPress/Photocome/Press Association Images
Leaving

Haug to leave Mercedes post

The 60-year-old is set to leave his post after 22 years.

MERCEDES MOTORSPORT CHIEF Norbert Haug will leave the role at the end of 2012 after 22 years in the position.

Haug, 60, was involved in Mercedes’ return to Formula One in 1994 and has seen drivers from the team win six world titles and 87 races in his time.

The German paid tribute to his co-workers after his decision to step away from his post was confirmed on Thursday.

“I would like to thank the best car company in the world for more than 22 years, which never had a single moment without passion for me,” Haug said.

“I particularly wish to thank the board for the trust and freedom they have always given me with all my activities.

“Since 1991, we had tremendous achievements and wins, for which I want to thank all of my colleagues.

“Unfortunately, with one victory in 2012 since founding our own Formula One works team in 2010, we couldn’t fulfil our own expectations.

“However, we have taken the right steps to be successful in the future. Our team and our drivers will do everything to achieve these goals.”

Dr Dieter Zetsche, head of Mercedes-Benz Cars and CEO of Daimler, praised Haug for his commitment to the team.

“Norbert Haug was the face of the Mercedes-Benz Motorsport programme for more than 20 years,” Zetsche said.

“For me, he put his stamp on a whole era and, as a highlight, he was responsible for the successful comeback of the Silver Arrows to Formula One.

“In the name of the board of management and the whole motorsport family, I would like to thank Norbert for his extraordinary commitment to the three-pointed star.”

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