Richard Parks Adrian Newey, the renowned Formula 1 car designer, has fully dedicated himself to creating Aston Martin’s 2026 racing car. Since officially starting with the team in March 2025, Newey has focused on building a fast, reliable car that can compete for championships and potentially lure current world champion Max Verstappen away from Red Bull. His mission is to design a car that meets new technical rules for the 2026 season and convinces Verstappen that Aston Martin is a winning choice.
Newey described his work as a “design trance” during the Monaco Grand Prix, saying he has given nearly all his mental energy to this project. “I had one weekend off—other than that, it’s been full on,” he said. Newey was unable to start work with Aston Martin immediately after leaving Red Bull in April 2024 due to contract rules, but since March 2025, he has been deeply involved in shaping the team’s future.
The 2026 Formula 1 season will introduce new regulations, and Newey is leading Aston Martin’s design from the ground up to take full advantage. These changes create an opportunity to reshape the competitive order in the sport. Newey’s goal is clear: to build a car that can win races and championships.
Speculation surrounds Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull. Newey was direct about what it would take for Verstappen to switch teams. “Max is a supreme competitor,” Newey said. “He will go where he believes he’ll get the fastest car. If we’re to ever attract Max, the first thing we have to do is make a fast car.” Newey was instrumental in Verstappen’s four world titles with Red Bull, making his input crucial to Aston Martin’s ambitions.
After leaving Red Bull, Newey signed a long-term deal with Aston Martin reportedly worth £30 million per year. His contract also includes a share in the team, reflecting his commitment to transforming Aston Martin into a title contender. Team owner Lawrence Stroll has played a key role in recruiting Newey, aiming to raise the team’s performance and profile.
Newey praised Aston Martin’s facilities, including a new factory and wind tunnel, calling them among the best in Formula 1. However, he stressed that tools alone don’t guarantee success. “Wind tunnels are a bit like engine dynos—you need them, but it’s the human element that makes the difference,” he said. Beyond designing the car, Newey is focused on helping the team’s staff perform at their best.
With 13 drivers’ and 13 constructors’ championships to his name, Newey is one of the most successful designers in F1 history. His work helped shape the careers of legends such as Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, Mika Häkkinen, Sebastian Vettel, and Max Verstappen. His move to Aston Martin signals a serious effort to compete with F1’s top teams.
Max Verstappen is contracted with Red Bull until 2028, but a winning Aston Martin car could change his plans. Newey recognizes that attracting Verstappen depends entirely on performance on the track. As the 2025 season unfolds, Aston Martin’s progress will be closely watched.