Introduction

The Formula 1 world is experiencing one of its biggest leadership shifts in years. Legendary car designer Adrian Newey is officially stepping into the role of Aston Martin team principal in 2026, marking a bold new chapter for the team.
This strategic move is part of a wider restructuring inside the Aston Martin F1 organisation—one that aims to prepare the team for the new era of regulations coming in 2026.

In this blog, we break down everything you need to know: why Newey is taking charge, what changes are happening behind the scenes, and how this transition could reshape Aston Martin’s future.

Adrian Newey Steps Up as Aston Martin Team Principal

After joining Aston Martin earlier this year in the position of managing technical partner, Adrian Newey is now set to take full leadership responsibility as team principal.
Newey joined the team in March on a five-year contract reportedly worth up to £30 million per year including bonuses—reflecting the huge value placed on his engineering and strategic expertise.

Known for designing some of the most successful cars in F1 history, Newey brings with him a record of 12 Drivers’ Championships and 13 Constructors’ Championships across Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull.
His depth of experience has made him the natural authority inside the team, prompting Aston Martin to realign leadership around his strengths.

Andy Cowell Moves to New Role After Leadership Changes

This leadership shift means Andy Cowell, who took on the role of team principal and CEO just 13 months ago, is stepping aside from his current position.
Cowell will now serve as Chief Strategy Officer, focusing specifically on Aston Martin’s future engine programme with Honda and working closely with fuel partners.

Reports from inside the team indicate that disagreements between Cowell and Newey—especially around the design direction of the 2026 car—played a role in this change.
Aston Martin’s official statement framed it as a decision designed “to allow both leaders to focus on their individual strengths.”

Cowell himself acknowledged that he has “set the foundations” for the transition to a full works team and that this is “the right moment to take on a different responsibility.”

Why Adrian Newey’s Promotion Matters

Aston Martin is preparing for a massive shift in regulations coming in 2026, along with its new engine partnership with Honda.
Team owner Lawrence Stroll believes that Newey’s leadership will unlock the team’s full potential, allowing him to maximize his creativity and technical insight.

Newey will now oversee:

• Technical departments
• Car design
• Trackside performance
• 2026 development strategy

He said he has already seen “exceptional individual talent” in the team and looks forward to shaping Aston Martin into a strong works outfit under the new rules.

Behind-the-Scenes: Other F1 Names Considered

Before giving Newey the top job, Lawrence Stroll reportedly explored other leadership options.
Names considered included:

• Andreas Seidl (former McLaren & Sauber head)
• Mattia Binotto (leading Audi F1 project)
• Martin Whitmarsh (former Aston Martin CEO)

Meanwhile, Christian Horner, recently removed from Red Bull, has shown interest in joining Aston Martin and even reportedly visited the factory at night—guided by Newey.
However, team sources say Horner will not be offered a position or ownership stake.

Conclusion

Aston Martin’s decision to make Adrian Newey team principal is one of the boldest moves the team has ever made.
With Newey’s unmatched experience, Cowell’s strategic engine oversight, and Honda joining as a full engine partner, the team is positioning itself for a major leap forward in 2026.

If Aston Martin can fully harness Newey’s vision, F1 fans may witness the rise of a new championship contender.