Oastler quits motorsport

According to Jaguar, Oastler played a critical role in the development on this year's R5 and was a consultant in the design of its predecessor the R4.

"I've had a fantastic 20 year stint playing racing cars, but I don't think it's something you should do forever," Oastler said. "As much as I love the technical aspects and the people, the lure of the southern sun and the beach have won the day.

"I owe a huge debt of gratitude to everyone I have had the pleasure of working with throughout my career. In particular, I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone at Jaguar Racing. This was far from an easy decision for me. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Jaguar in helping to make the team competitive. My key challenge over the past year has been to ensure we produce a competitive racing car and in the Jaguar R5, I believe we have achieved that result."

Oastler enjoyed his most successful period as a designer for Reynard where his F3000 and Champ Car designs dominated their categories. His 1994 IndyCar chassis won its first race at Surfer's Paradise with Michael Andretti and Ganassi Racing and his cars went on to win over 50 more in the next five years, including the Indianapolis 500.

When Adrian Reynard joined forces with Craig Pollock to form British American Racing in the winter of 1998, Oastler was called open to design the team's first Supertec-powered chassis. Although the car did not prove successful he remained with the team and was appointed technical director in 1999, by which time the team had secured a works supply of Honda engines for the following season.

In 2002 Oaster left BAR for Jaguar where he has remained and will continue to work until the end of his notice period in mid-June.