Peter Lee recently made headlines when he announced his departure from Microsoft after more than 16 years. His next move, however, was a surprise to many as he revealed his childhood dream of joining the Mercedes Formula 1 team.

The former Microsoft Research leader, known for his passion for racing and cars, will be taking on a new role as an AI advisor for the Mercedes team. This unexpected career shift aligns with Lee’s background in racing karts and Formula Ford, as well as his expertise in AI.

In an interview with Fortune, Lee expressed his excitement about the opportunity, stating, “I’m completely thrilled, and I’m in disbelief that they would think of me for something like this.”

At Mercedes, Lee will focus on utilizing AI to solve physics problems for the team’s car, addressing organizational and data challenges, developing financial and predictive models, and advising on AI governance within the F1 regulations.

Lee’s love for cars as a “great laboratory” for AI models stems from his belief that working on cars provides a sense of accomplishment that software development often lacks. His hands-on experience with vintage cars and electric conversions adds a unique perspective to his new role at Mercedes.

The one-year contract with the option for a second reflects the mutual enthusiasm between Lee and the Mercedes team. While his exact title is still being finalized, Lee’s expertise in AI and passion for racing make him a valuable addition to the Formula 1 world.

Lee’s departure from Microsoft is part of a larger trend of senior executives leaving the company this year, signaling a shift in leadership within the tech giant. Despite the changes, Lee’s move to Mercedes represents a new chapter in his career that combines his lifelong passion with cutting-edge technology.