‘A logical change’ – Alonso hails ‘great leader’ Newey’s appointment as Aston Martin Team Principal
Fernando Alonso has hailed the news that design supremo Adrian Newey will become Aston Martin’s Team Principal in 2026, assessing the move as a “logical change.”
After spending nearly 20 years of his career at Red Bull, Newey made the switch to the ambitious Silverstone-based outfit as Managing Technical Partner – starting work in March this year – with many hoping he could capitalise on next season’s new regulations and take the squad to the top.
Now, the Briton will lead the squad in 2026 as Aston Martin confirmed a leadership restructure ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix, with current Team Principal Andy Cowell, who has held the role since January, becoming Chief Strategy Officer – a role the team said would benefit his personal skills more.
With Aston Martin currently sitting a disappointing eighth in the Teams’ Standings, Alonso appeared hopeful that Newey’s extensive experience in working at successful teams will carry on in his new role.
“It’s great news for the team to have Adrian, with all his expertise and knowledge about everything that a team should need to compete at the highest level,” the Spaniard said. “Andy is taking different responsibilities in the area he knows best so it seems like it’s a logical change and I’m happy with that.
“I think [Newey] has all the skills, to be honest, to make a fast car. The role of Team Principal is a bit different nowadays and you have to deal with other things – media, commitments, sponsors.
“I hope Adrian doesn’t have to do all of those and can concentrate on the more important stuff. He knows how to operate a team and how everyone should focus in one direction, so he’s a great leader and I’m happy with this announcement.
“Everyone would like to work with Newey and learn from him. Being our Team Principal, I’m sure we will have even more people dreaming of joining the team, so that’s good news for us.”
Although Newey has never held the position of Team Principal before, Lance Stroll was similarly confident that his prowess in the sport will go a long way in helping Aston Martin progress.
Combined with their brand new facilities and the substantial regulation changes, which will see the cars become lighter and smaller, the Canadian predicted that Newey’s appointment will make waves across the team.
“I think it’s great for the team,” he summarised. “He’s been managing a lot of things back at the factory for the last few months since he joined. To have him in that position is positive for the whole team. I think he’s going to be around this weekend too so it’s all good.
“I know he’s much more than just an aerodynamicist or a car designer. Of course, his main priority is the car and he’s completely on top of it. It’s his project, his baby.
“He’s also heavily involved in managing the people and the culture of the team and extracting the most out of everyone in every position in the whole company. He’s working in many different avenues.”
