Overview
- Adrian Newey says taking the role will not change his workload and he is determined not to dilute his focus on designing Aston Martin’s 2026 car.
- Andy Cowell moves to Chief Strategy Officer to steer the three‑way 2026 power‑unit project with Honda and fuel partner Aramco.
- Aston Martin has ruled out hiring Christian Horner, with Lawrence Stroll telling staff the move is “absolutely not happening,” according to reports from the Qatar Grand Prix.
- Newey explained he will be trackside at the early 2026 races anyway, calling his assumption of team principal duties a practical decision.
- Reactions across the paddock included support from Fernando Alonso, Lance Stroll and Max Verstappen, while Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko expressed surprise at the appointment.