The signing of Adrian Newey to Aston Martin has revolutionized the world of Formula 1; considering his reputation as one of the best designers of all time, any move he makes is analyzed in detail; however, according to Andy Cowell, head of Aston Martin, he is not working on the AMR25, this season’s car, instead he is focused on the future car for 2026.
Adrian Newey’s impact on Aston Martin
Newey’s arrival has generated a lot of curiosity in Formula 1. The engineer has already settled in at Silverstone and has started working with the team; however, for 2026, as Andy Cowell says, he is not focused on the AMR25.
Cowell made it clear in his statements after an appearance at Albert Park that “Newey is learning the 2026 regulations, understanding our work and contributing ideas at the design table.” This means that he has not been directly involved in the development of the car for this exercise, which may be a small disappointment for certain fans of the British team.
Adrian Newey and his influence on the development of 2026
The role he will play in the AMR25 has raised questions; Cowell has made it clear that his presence is already having an impact on the working group. “It’s a pleasure to work with Adrian. He has vast experience and has valuable insights into how to create fast racing cars,” explained the green team leader.
Although Newey has not been directly involved in the AMR25, his analytical vision has led the team to rethink some key points. “There are a couple of areas where he has already asked whether we can push for certain changes, and the engineers are looking at their feasibility,” Cowell said. What Cowell’s words show is that Newey’s arrival at Aston Martin, although he will only be working on 2026 and not on the AMR25, ends up being enough to change the dynamics of the Aston Martin team, or the inadequacy with which it is associated.
Will Adrian Newey be involved in the AMR25?
One of the big questions being asked is whether, at some point during the season, Adrian Newey will end up modifying the AMR25. “So far, he has focused entirely on the 2026 car,” Cowell was very categorical. This suggests that, at least for the time being, this season’s car will remain in the hands of the original engineering team.
However, it cannot be completely ruled out that Newey, as the championship progresses, will contribute something that could improve the performance of the AMR25. “There are areas of corners and areas of straights where we are working to improve the car,” Cowell said, suggesting that any evolution of the car will be linked to the completeness of the team’s work.
Although Adrian Newey’s incorporation into Aston Martin is great news for the future of the team, it is unlikely that his impact on the AMR25 will be noticeable for the time being. However, the British designer has his full attention on the 2026 regulations and how to lead Aston Martin into this new era of the F1 World Championship. So the fate of the AMR25 will depend solely on the team of engineers who were already working on it; it remains to be seen if they can improve the car enough to be able to compete at the front of the grid this season.