Aston Martin F1 chief Adrian Newey apologises to Fernando Alonso over driver communication lapse

Aston Martin technical director Adrian Newey said the team failed to consult its drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, during development of the 2026 car. He admitted poor communication and took personal responsibility, apologising to Alonso and urging him to remain with the squad.

The team has struggled this season, being the slowest on the grid after nine races and scoring only one point. Financial constraints led to a freeze on car development during the first half of the year. Newey said a major upgrade package will be introduced at the Hungarian Grand Prix, with a further evolution at the Dutch Grand Prix where Honda will debut a new engine specification. He described Alonso as an "invaluable asset" and asked the Spanish driver to stay if the upgrades prove successful, noting that Alonso’s contract runs to the end of 2026 and his future remains undecided.