Aston Martin plagued by engine and aerodynamic issues in Spanish Grand Prix qualifying

Fernando Alonso described the Aston Martin AMR26 as having "the worst engine" and multiple problems, saying the car was unpredictable and that the team expected to finish at the back of the field in the Spanish Grand Prix. He added that the team is focusing on a new AMR26B for the second half of the season.

In qualifying, Lance Stroll posted a time just ahead of Alonso, leaving the two Aston Martin drivers in 21st and 22nd place respectively, while George Russell secured pole. The team acknowledged a lack of down‑force and overall performance deficits, confirming the car was far off the pace of the leaders on a hot Barcelona circuit.

Team boss Mike Krack and technical director Adrian Newey noted that the shortcomings are being addressed, but immediate results remain limited as the team battles to close a long‑standing performance gap.