Daijiworld Media Network - Spain

Spain, Nov 27: Aston Martin has announced a major leadership change with legendary F1 designer Adrian Newey set to take over as Team Principal from the start of next year. The move comes as part of an expansion of his role as Managing Technical Partner, marking a significant shift in the team’s structure as it prepares for a new era.

Newey, who joined Aston Martin on March 1 after nearly 20 years with Red Bull, will now oversee the team’s technical operations and trackside performance. His appointment places him at the centre of Aston Martin’s preparations for the sweeping technical regulations coming into effect in 2026.

Current Team Principal and CEO Andy Cowell will transition to the role of Chief Strategy Officer. After spending the past year implementing key structural changes, Cowell will now focus on strengthening coordination with Aston Martin’s major technical partners — Honda, Aramco, and Valvoline — as the team becomes a full works outfit.

Executive Chairman Lawrence Stroll will continue to lead the business side of the team, with Cowell reporting directly to him. The team stated that the leadership changes are intended to amplify the unique strengths of both Newey and Cowell while improving organisational efficiency.

Newey said he has witnessed strong talent within the team over the last nine months and is eager to take on the expanded responsibility as Aston Martin positions itself for competitiveness under the new regulations. Cowell said the timing was right for him to move into his new role, having laid the foundation for the team’s transition into a works operation.

Aston Martin currently sits eighth in the Constructors’ Championship — three places lower than last season — after a challenging year. Newey has already begun work on the design of the 2026 car, and the team hopes his leadership will mark the beginning of a new chapter as it aims to climb back up the order.