Aston Martin has announced the departure of team boss Otmar Szafnauer ahead of the new Formula 1 season.

The American has been a key member of the Silverstone-based outfit since 2009 when it was known as Force India, this after previous roles at BAR, Jaguar and Honda.

Under Szafnauer, the team finished fourth in the Constructors' standings in 2016 and 2017 before the takeover by Lawrence Stroll and the formation of Racing Point in mid-2018.

Last year, however, was a disappointing one for the rebranded Aston Martin squad, as floor changes saw a loss of performance that was never fully recovered and the team slipped to seventh in the Championship.

In a statement, Aston thanked Szafnauer for his service to the team over the past 12 years and wished him the best in his future challenges.

The team also revealed operations will be managed internally until a new structure and replacement is finalised.