Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Helmut Marko has revealed recent contact with Adrian Newey amid a difficult start to the 2026 Formula 1 season for Aston Martin F1 Team.
Newey, who joined from Oracle Red Bull Racing, has taken on an expanded role that includes team principal responsibilities alongside his traditional technical leadership. His appointment was central to Aston Martin’s long-term project, particularly with the start of its full works partnership with Honda.
However, the opening rounds of the season have exposed significant weaknesses in both performance and reliability. The team has struggled at the back of the field despite substantial investment and ambitious targets set by team owner Lawrence Stroll.
A key issue has emerged from the Honda power unit, specifically excessive vibrations within the battery system. This has not only limited outright performance but also affected driver endurance, with both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll unable to complete full race distances under normal conditions.
Newey previously indicated that Alonso could risk “permanent nerve damage” in his hands if he attempted to complete more than 25 consecutive laps in the AMR26, underlining the severity of the vibration problem affecting the car.
“I’ve been in contact with him. He’s not doing well,” Marko stated in an interview with OE24.
The situation has placed increased scrutiny on Newey, whose high-profile move from Red Bull was expected to spearhead a new competitive era for Aston Martin. Instead, early indications suggest a project still in its formative phase, with several fundamental issues yet to be resolved.
Marko also expressed his view that Aston Martin’s recovery will not be immediate, citing the complexity of the technical challenges involved, particularly in integrating the power unit and stabilising the overall package.
“There are problems with this project that won’t be solved quickly.”
Speculation is now emerging that Newey could consider stepping back from his managerial responsibilities to refocus on his core technical expertise, an area where he has built a proven legacy in Formula 1.
Aston Martin now enters a critical phase of its 2026 campaign, with mounting pressure to deliver early improvements as the championship progresses, and the upcoming rounds expected to provide a clearer indication of whether the team can stabilise its performance trajectory.
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