P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Aston Martin have reshuffled their design staff ahead of the 2026 F1 season.
Aston Martin has recently made cuts to their design team, with at least seven staff members being removed as part of a restructure in preparation for F1’s new regulation era. The turnover is aimed at maximizing their efforts for the 2026 season, when new power unit and technical rules will be introduced. Some departing staff are in talks for non-F1 roles within the wider Aston Martin group, focusing on advanced technologies. The team’s goal is to position themselves as championship contenders in the future by adapting to the cost cap era and focusing on strategic recruitment and retention within the cap. Despite these changes, Aston Martin has not made any public announcements regarding the staffing adjustments. Key departures include Eric Blandin and former chief designer Akio Haga, part of the reshuffle led by key figures like CEO Andy Cowell and technical partner Adrian Newey. Their 2026 car will be powered by Honda as a part of a factory engine partnership, with current drivers contracted until the end of the 2026 season and the team currently placed seventh in the constructors’ championship standings.
