Exclusive: Microsoft’s departing science president plans to join Mercedes F1 team as AI advisor 

Peter Lee, who recently announced his departure as president of Microsoft Science, plans to join the Mercedes Formula 1 team as an artificial intelligence advisor, he told Fortune.

The move would take Lee from a senior science leadership position at one of the world’s major technology companies into a newly created role with a leading Formula 1 team. His appointment signals Mercedes’ decision to establish a dedicated advisory position focused on AI.

A newly created position at Mercedes

Lee’s planned role is specifically described as an AI advisor. The announcement does not provide details about his responsibilities, start date or the terms of the move.

His transition also links his next professional chapter to a team competing in Formula 1, where Mercedes has created a position centered on artificial intelligence. For Lee, the role follows his recently disclosed departure from Microsoft Science.

What is known about the move

Lee told Fortune that he plans to join Mercedes. The team’s creation of the advisory role and Lee’s expected appointment are the key details currently available. No further information was provided about specific projects, reporting lines or how the position will affect Mercedes’ operations.

The move remains a planned transition rather than a confirmed start, with additional details yet to be disclosed.