Toro Rosso has announced Technical Director James Key will remain with the team in the future after signing a new deal with the Red Bull junior outfit.

The Briton made the switch from Sauber in 2012 and has become one of the most respected designers in the Formula 1 paddock, consistently producing strong chassis' that are among the best in the midfield. 

Though it was not revealed how long the new contract is, the decision to extend is a positive for Toro Rosso as Key, who has also built a strong team around him at Faenza with several notable additions during his stay.

"I'm delighted to continue with Toro Rosso and remain part of the Red Bull family," he said of his new contract. "This is a team which I have great respect for and have thoroughly enjoyed working with for the past five years; now I look forwards to continuing our project into the future.

"I would like to thank Franz Tost and Red Bull for their continued support and confidence. We have more work to do, and I look forwards to taking the next steps with Toro Rosso towards our goals."

Team Principal Franz Tost added: "Formula 1 is a team sport, but one in which an individual can still make a difference. So far, in his time with us, James has proved that he can indeed make that difference, leading the technical side of the operation.

"Not only has he been adept at producing chassis-aero packages that are well regarded throughout the paddock, he has also shown the management skills necessary to get the most out of all the various departments that work together both here in Faenza and in Bicester.

"I'm therefore delighted that James will be with us for the foreseeable future to continue this fruitful process."