Aston Martin’s technical partner, Adrian Newey, has expressed excitement about the potential for innovation in Formula 1’s new 2026 ruleset. Newey, joining Aston Martin from Red Bull, aims to position the team as a frontrunner by focusing on the upcoming chassis and engine formula changes. The 2026 rules will see smaller, lighter cars with active aerodynamics, aiming to balance drag reduction on straights with sufficient cornering downforce.
Newey draws parallels between the 2026 and 2022 rule changes, emphasizing initial perceptions of strict regulations giving way to diverse design approaches. He anticipates teams will explore different solutions initially before converging over time, fostering variation among competitors. The simultaneous overhaul of chassis and power unit rules for 2026 is a notable shift that Newey finds both intriguing and daunting, especially considering the potential for grid dynamics to undergo a significant shakeup.
With a background at Red Bull’s engine partner Honda, Newey expresses confidence in Aston Martin’s ability to adapt to the new power units swiftly. He trusts in Honda’s expertise and anticipates diverse aero and power unit solutions emerging across the grid, echoing the varied responses seen during the introduction of hybrid regulations in 2014.
