Wurz becomes GPDA chairman

Alex Wurz is to become the new chairman of Formula 1's Grand Prix Drivers' Association. The former Benetton, McLaren and Williams racer will take over from Ferrari development driver Pedro de la Rosa.

Wurz currently races for Toyota's LMP1 program in the World Endurance Championship. Sebastian Vettel and Jenson Button will remain as GPDA directors.

Speaking about his new role, Wurz said: "I am very proud to have this responsibility and the opportunity to build the GPDA into a more united voice for our sport.

"We know our history; we know what heroes like Stirling [Moss], Niki [Lauda] and Jackie [Stewart], Michael [Schumacher] and Ayrton [Senna] have all helped create. With the support of Jean [Todt] and Bernie [Ecclestone], the teams, the media and most importantly with the backing of our fans, the GPDA will now aim to become a more dynamic and positive influence for the future of our sport."

Wurz has outlined an agenda for the GPDA that includes reaching out to fans more, working with rulemakers to make the racing more exciting and improving safety.