Despite the significant investment that has been poured into Aston Martin’s Formula 1 team, it continues to emphasize its status as a “young, growing team” in comparison to its more seasoned counterparts in the sport. The British brand, based in Silverstone, wrapped up the previous season ranking fifth in the Constructors’ Championship, trailing a significant 256 points behind the fourth-placed team, Mercedes.
As the sport looks ahead to the impending rule changes in 2026, Aston Martin is among a group of teams hoping to leverage these alterations to close the points gap with the leading teams. The British automaker has committed substantial resources to the renovation of its Silverstone campus and has further bolstered its team with notable additions, including renowned design expert Adrian Newey.
Andy Cowell, the boss of Aston Martin, disclosed that certain departments within the team have already shifted their focus to the 2026 car, following the on-track debut of the AMR25. Cowell explained that the focus on 2026 is a significant topic for all teams, and some of their business sectors are already centred entirely on 2026.
The impending 2025 reset brings about an intriguing predicament for the teams. They will need to balance their resources between developing the current car models and preparing for the next generation of cars. Cowell acknowledges that Aston Martin’s performance at the start of the 2025 campaign will influence the team’s transition towards the AMR26.
However, Cowell is unwavering in his belief that the opportunities presented by the 2025 season cannot be overlooked due to Aston Martin’s status as a maturing organization. He insists that their growth trajectory is unique, and despite the development of new infrastructure, the team is still in the process of aligning all the elements together.
The 2026 season presents a significant challenge for Aston Martin. Not only will they have the advantage of Newey’s sought-after expertise, but they will also be embarking on a works engine deal with Honda, ending their long-standing partnership with Mercedes. This move necessitates that the 2026 car’s rear suspension and transmission system be built in-house, a considerable task in itself.
Cowell acknowledges that this transition, coupled with a major rules overhaul, means that Aston Martin will face a larger transition than most of their F1 competitors. However, he remains optimistic, stating they will continue to identify areas for improvement and work tirelessly to address them efficiently.
