Spygate man returns to F1 with Williams

Williams today controversially appointed Mike Coughlan, who was sacked by McLaren in 2007 for his role in the Formula One Spygate scandal, as their new chief engineer.

The 52-year-old was suspended from the sport for two years after being found to be in possession of confidential documents belonging to McLaren rivals Ferrari.

He has since been working in the US NASCAR series with Michael Waltrip Racing but has now been brought back to F1 by struggling Williams, who are without a point this term.

Coughlan said: "I am grateful to Williams for giving me this opportunity. My experience in 2007 was life-changing. Now, I am looking forward to returning to a sport which I love and to joining a team I have admired for many years."

Williams chairman Adam Parr defended the appointment as he said: "Everyone has the right to move beyond that. Otherwise what is portrayed as a two-year penalty becomes a lifetime penalty and I think that is just not right."