Aston Martin Sets Launch Date for Adrian Newey-Designed AMR26

Aston Martin's AMR26, the first Formula 1 car designed under the legendary Adrian Newey, is set for its official unveiling on February 9, 2026. This marks a pivotal moment for the team as they prepare for F1's radical new regulations, with Newey not only leading the design but also stepping into the team principal role.

Why it matters:

Adrian Newey's arrival at Aston Martin is arguably one of the biggest personnel coups in recent F1 history. With 26 world championships under his belt, his influence on the AMR26 could be transformative, potentially elevating Aston Martin into a consistent front-running contender, especially as the sport enters a new regulatory era with significant chassis and power unit changes.

The details:

• Unveiling Date: The AMR26 will be revealed to the world on February 9, 2026, making Aston Martin the third team to confirm their 2026 launch date, following Red Bull and Racing Bulls (January 15).
• Newey's Role: Having joined Aston Martin in March as a managing technical partner with team shares, Newey will assume the role of Aston Martin team principal from F1 2026. This expanded role underscores his deep commitment and influence over the team's future direction.
• Regulatory Overhaul: The 2026 season introduces sweeping changes:
  • Cars: Will be smaller and 30 kilograms lighter.
  • Aerodynamics: Active aerodynamics on both wings will replace the current Drag Reduction System (DRS).
  • Power Units: Triple the electrical power, with internal combustion engines running on fully sustainable biofuel. Energy management is expected to become a critical performance differentiator.
• Honda Partnership: Aston Martin will embark on this new challenge with Honda as their new engine partner. Newey's leadership, combined with Andy Cowell's strategic officer role working closely with Honda, aims to optimize this crucial collaboration.
• Leadership Transition: Current team boss Andy Cowell, renowned for masterminding Mercedes' dominant power units, will transition to Chief Strategic Officer, focusing on the intricate relationship between Honda, Aramco, and Aston Martin.

What's next:

With Newey at the helm, both in design and leadership, and a new partnership with Honda, Aston Martin is positioning itself for a significant shift in the competitive order. The continuity in the driver lineup with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll also suggests a focus on stability as the team navigates the new regulations.

• Newey's expanded role as team principal is a direct result of Cowell's magnanimous decision to focus on the complex 2026 power unit project, highlighting a strategic and collaborative approach within the team.
• The F1 world will eagerly anticipate whether Newey's legendary touch, combined with Honda's new power unit, can propel Aston Martin to championship contention in the coming years.