Adrian Newey to Lead Aston Martin in 2026

Formula 1 design legend Adrian Newey will take on the role of Team Principal for the first time in his career after agreeing to front Aston Martin from 2026.

Newey, who has won world championships in technical roles with Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull Racing, joined Aston Martin in March this year.

Newey has been predominantly factory-based after joining Aston Martin, amid his focus on the 2026 project under new regulations, but has also brought his wealth of experience and advice to the team.

Newey, who joined as Managing Technical Partner, will continue to be responsible for guiding Aston Martin’s technical team as Team Principal, as well as the trackside operations of the car.

“Over the last nine months, I have seen great individual talent within our team,” Newey said.

“I’m looking forward to taking on this additional role as we put ourselves in the best possible position to compete in 2026, where we will face an entirely new position with Aston Martin now a works team combined with the considerable challenge faced by the new regulations.” Current Aston Martin Team Principal Andy Cowell remain with the squad in the new role of Chief Strategy Officer.

Cowell, who only succeeded Mike Krack in January 2025, will report directly to team owner and Executive Chairman Lawrence Stroll.

“Having implemented much needed structural changes as we transition to a full works team and set the foundations for Adrian and the wider organisation, it is an appropriate time for me to take a different role as Chief Strategy Officer,” Cowell said.

“In this role, I will help to optimise the technical partnership between the ream, Honda, Aramco and Valvoline and to ensure the seamless integration of the team’s new power unit, fuel and chassis.”

Aston Martin, which has targeted title contention under new regulations, is currently eighth in the Constructors’ Championship.