Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team has called on the media to reduce pressure on Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll following a difficult start to the 2026 Formula 1 season.
The team has encountered multiple technical issues in the opening rounds, primarily linked to its Honda power unit, which has generated significant vibration problems. These issues have affected not only performance but also driver comfort, with Alonso forced to retire from the Chinese Grand Prix due to severe physical discomfort.
With drivers required to attend media sessions multiple times across a race weekend, Alonso and Stroll have become the primary focus for questioning, including on technical matters beyond their direct control. This situation has been further compounded by the absence of team principal Adrian Newey trackside in Shanghai.
Chief trackside officer Mike Krack stressed that the high level of exposure faced by the drivers should be matched with greater understanding from the media regarding their position within the team.
“I’m happy that you asked this question, because for the drivers, it is the hardest,” Krack told media, as reported by RacingNews365.
“There is nothing they can do. The drivers are super-exposed, and they receive all the questions, including controversial ones.”
Krack also pointed out that some of the questions directed at the drivers are not appropriate, particularly when they relate to technical or strategic issues outside their remit.
“They often get questions that are sometimes not appropriate. You can say they are professionals, but they are also human beings,” he added.
“This is a sport driven by emotion, and we are putting a lot of energy into not being at the back.”
From a technical perspective, the vibration issue linked to the Honda power unit has been a central factor in Aston Martin’s struggles. During the race in Shanghai, onboard footage showed Alonso repeatedly removing his hands from the steering wheel to relieve discomfort, underlining the physical impact of the problem.
The situation has also raised concerns about potential long-term effects, although paddock sources suggest that the risk of permanent damage remains unconfirmed. Nevertheless, the pressure on the team to resolve the issue is intensifying as results continue to fall short of expectations.
Krack emphasised the need for a more balanced approach in media coverage, particularly during challenging periods for the team.
“It’s a tough moment, but if we can all take a bit more consideration for the drivers, it will help everyone,” he said.
Following a double retirement in China, Aston Martin faces a critical phase early in the season. The team’s focus now shifts to resolving its technical limitations and stabilising performance ahead of the next round, where improvements in reliability and overall package consistency will be essential to re-establish competitiveness in the midfield battle.
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