The BMW Sauber F1 Team has announced that, as of 1 July 2006, Jörg Zander will take up tools in Hinwil, Switzerland as head of design, a position that gives the 42-year-old responsibility for the design of the racing car. He will be accountable to Willy Rampf, Technical Director – Chassis.

BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen said: "The development of the BMW Sauber F1 Team continues to move forward, and that includes adding a chief designer to our staff line-up. We are certain that in Jörg Zander we have found the right man for this pivotal position. His experience will be an important asset to us."

Jörg Zander looks ahead to his new task with keen anticipation. "The BMW Sauber F1 Team is in its set-up phase, which presents a major challenge. It isn't just a matter of technology but of laying down the structures and processes as well. Drawing on my experience, I would like to do my bit to support the team on its way up."

Zander was born on 15 February 1964 in Ratingen (Germany). After a degree in mechanical engineering at Cologne's University of Applied Sciences, he devoted himself exclusively to motor racing at the end of 1990, starting with the design and race deployment of rally cars, touring cars and GT models. Zander launched his Formula One career with Toyota Motorsport GmbH in Cologne, where he was appointed head of chassis and hydraulic engineering in 1999. In 2002 he moved to BAR-Honda to become chief engineer for mechanics and transmission, and in September 2005 was appointed head of design at Williams Grand Prix.