Susie Wolff to retire from competitive racing

Wolff had joined the Williams team in a development driver role back in April 2012 while she was competing in the DTM.

The British driver made her first grand prix appearance for Williams driving in the first practice session of the 2014 British Grand Prix.

Since then, she has driven in four practice sessions across the 2014 and 2015 seasons. In 2015, she was promoted to the team's official test driver role.

Commenting on her retirement, Wolff said in a statement: "I’d like to thank Williams for the opportunity they have given me over the last few years which has allowed me to achieve my dream of driving a Formula 1 car.

"It has been great to work with everyone at the team, both at Grove and trackside, and I’d like to thank everyone who has been part of my journey at Williams.

"I am now closing this chapter but looking forward to new challenges in the future," she added.

Deputy team principal Claire Williams lauded Wolff's extensive work behind the scenes and acknowledged her services.

“It has been a pleasure to work with Susie over the years and see her develop as a driver within the team," she said in a statement.

"Her feedback and knowledge of the car has been an important part our recent development and we will be sorry to see her go.

"We want to thank her for all her efforts and wish her the very best for her future endeavours."

Wolff's last racing assignment will be at the Race of Champions later this month.