Williams’ ex-title sponsor ROKiT yearns for a payback, refiles $149 million lawsuit

RoKiT's case was dismissed in Florida court on the grounds that their lawyer is unable to operate in Florida.

Williams’ ex-title sponsor ROKiT yearns for a payback, refiles $149 million lawsuit

Williams FW45 at Monza (Via IMAGO)

ROKiT, the former title sponsor of the Williams F1 team, is gearing up for another round in the legal arena, refusing to back down despite a setback in a Florida court. The VC Conglomerate staunchly believes they were robbed of their $149 million and are set on winning it back with a new approach.

The saga began when ROKiT filed a $149 million lawsuit against Williams, alleging fraudulent statements and financial losses. A legal dispute between Williams and ROKiT arose from contractual arrangements in Formula 1. ROKiT, a sponsor, committed to pay Williams £3.5 million to £5 million, but the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the 2020 season, prompting ROKiT to reconsider. ROKiT argued that Williams failed to meet obligations post-January 1, 2020. 

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Arbitrator Klaus Reichert SC, however, ruled in favor of Alex Albon‘s team, emphasizing ROKiT’s unequivocal promise to pay regardless of circumstances. Williams was awarded $35.7 million. This arbitration win strengthened Williams’ legal position, leading to ROKiT’s subsequent legal battle in California. The dispute continued, marking a complex chapter in their relationship.

Speaking to Autosport, ROKiT’s boss, Jonathan Kendrick, made it clear that he’s unwilling to let go of the case, stating firmly, “I’m not letting this go. We’re going to refile in California.” The decision to refile in California is strategic, with ROKiT assembling a new legal team for the upcoming battle, as their previous attorney faced limitations in the Florida court.

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RoKiT’s current lawyer will not be representing them in California

Williams FW45
Williams FW45 (Credits: @WilliamsRacing/Twitter)

Larry Klayman, the lawyer representing ROKiT, explained the situation, saying, “It will be refiled in California. That was a strategic decision that was made before the judge dismissed the case.” Recognizing the previous blow, he added, “It will be handled by California lawyers. Not by me. No harm has been done, no rights have been lost. That’s key. The case was not dismissed on its merits.”

Williams, on the other hand, maintains its stance, emphasizing its trust in the legal system. A spokesperson for Williams Racing confirmed, “Williams Racing can confirm that the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida has dismissed all claims filed by ROKiT against Williams and its former directors.” 

The team’s confidence stems from winning a $35.7 million arbitration against ROKiT after the former title sponsor backed out of two multi-year sponsorship deals. The lawsuit extends its reach beyond the Formula 1 team itself, targeting former deputy team principal Claire Williams, ex-team executives Mike O’Driscoll, who held the CEO position, and Doug Lafferty, the former chief financial officer. Their departures from the team coincided with Dorilton’s takeover in the autumn of 2020.

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