Formula 1 director of digital and licensing Frank Arthofer is set to step down from his position, as confirmed by the series.

Arthofer has held the position for four years, arriving following Liberty Media’s takeover of the series back in 2017.

In a press release, Formula 1 say Arthofer was “responsible for expanding the sport’s consumer facing businesses and growing the reach of F1 across all digital platforms.

“Since 2017, Formula 1 has transformed its digital and licensing operations. F1 has become a leading global brand on social media, launched and developed a direct-to-consumer subscription service, and created new, growing businesses in content, consumer products, and e-commerce.”

The report also credits Arthofer as the leading force behind the launch of Formula 1’s Esports series which entertained viewers during the COVID-enforced delay to the 2020 season.

Arthofer will relinquish the role in order to return to the United States with his wife and new-born son to be closer to family, though he will “continue to support the transition of his businesses within F1, before officially leaving at the end of January”.

There will be no successor to Arthofer appointed.

F1 announces Frank Arthofer is stepping down as
Director of Digital and Licensing to move back to the US #F1

— Chris Medland (@ChrisMedlandF1) January 7, 2021

“It’s been a great privilege to work on the transformation of the unique, world class, company that is Formula 1,” he said.

“Building the team and business from the ground up has been a professional challenge that I have relished and enjoyed from Day 1. I want to personally thank my staff at F1 for their constant focus on improvement, and Chase Carey and the team at Liberty Media for their enthusiastic support over the past 4 years.”

“I want to thank Frank for his dedication and success in building and growing our digital platforms and licensing business,” added Carey, who has moved from Formula One chairman to a non-executive role following the appointment of Stefano Domenicali.

“He joined us right at the start of our Formula 1 journey in 2017 and has been a big part of the team that has transformed Formula 1 into a leading global media and entertainment brand.

“Since Frank made his decision last year, he has been a great partner in helping me ensure a smooth transition of his business units – and I am confident that these areas will continue to thrive in their new homes within Formula 1.”

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