Ross Brawn has returned to Formula One in the newly created role of "managing director, motor sports" following Liberty Media's acquisition of the series.

One of the most successful technical directors in F1 history, Brawn has spent just over three years away from the sport since leaving Mercedes at the end of the 2013 season.

On Monday, his appointment - together with that of Sean Bratches as "managing director, commercial operations" - was confirmed by Chase Carey, the man who has succeeded long-time F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone as chief executive.

Carey, now the chairman and CEO of F1 after Liberty Media completed their $8billion takeover, said: "I am delighted to welcome Ross back to Formula 1. In his 40 years in the sport, he's brought his magic touch to every team with which he has worked, has almost unparalleled technical knowledge, experience and relationships, and I have already benefitted greatly from his advice and expertise.

"I look forward to working with Ross and Sean, as well as key current executives including Duncan Llowarch, our CFO, and Sacha Woodward Hill, our General Counsel, the FIA, Bernie [Ecclestone] and Liberty as we work together to make Formula 1 the best it can be for the teams, promoters and fans for years to come.

Brawn, 62, enjoyed considerable success as a technical director with Benetton and Ferrari, playing a key role in helping the great Michael Schumacher to seven drivers' championship titles. 

He subsequently took up a controlling stake in the Brawn GP team - serving as team principal when Jenson Button won the 2009 world title and a constructors' championship trophy was also secured - before spending four seasons in charge of Mercedes after a 2009 buy-out from the German manufacturer.

"It's fantastic to be returning to the world of Formula 1," said Brawn. "I've enjoyed consulting with Liberty Media these last few months and I'm looking forward to working with Chase, Sean and the rest of the Formula 1 team to help the evolution of the sport.

"We have an almost unprecedented opportunity to work together with the teams and promoters for a better F1 for them and, most importantly, for the fans."