Aston Martin Racing’s managing technical partner, Adrian Newey, has expressed pleasantly surprised by the scope for innovation in F1’s new-for-2026 ruleset, focusing on the new chassis ruleset and revised engine formula that will be introduced at the same time.
Newey highlighted that the 2026 regulations offer parallels with the last major rule change in 2022, emphasizing the flexibility for innovation and different approaches.
He anticipates teams coming up with distinct solutions, believing that the variety in design philosophies adds excitement to the competition of F1.
With sweeping rule changes across both the chassis and power unit, Newey acknowledges the challenges ahead. He views the changes as “interesting” and “slightly scary” but sees opportunities for both aerodynamic and power unit improvements.
Newey trusts Aston Martin’s new works manufacturer to deliver competitive power units in 2026, thanks to his experience with Red Bull’s current partner, Honda.
