Adrian Newey is banking on a major performance upgrade at the Hungarian Grand Prix to convince Fernando Alonso to extend his Aston Martin career through 2027.
LONDON
Adrian Newey, the team principal at Aston Martin, is banking on a massive car upgrade to convince Fernando Alonso to continue racing through 2027. Alonso, who turns 45 next month, remains the oldest driver on the Formula One grid and is currently seeking tangible proof that his team is moving in the right direction.
The upcoming improvements are scheduled for the Hungarian Grand Prix on July 26. Newey believes that if the car performs as expected, Alonso will feel motivated to remain in the cockpit. He highlighted that the veteran’s experience and ability to guide technical development make him a vital asset for the struggling squad.
Aston Martin has endured a brutal start to the 2026 season, managing only a single point across eight races. The team has been held back by an uncompetitive engine and an overweight car. In response, Newey is introducing a package that features a new nose, revised aerodynamic surfaces, and significant weight savings in the chassis and gearbox. While the core structure remains largely the same, the team hopes these changes will bring them closer to the weight limit.
Despite the optimism, Newey remains cautious about predicting specific results because the team’s simulation tools are still being refined. He also addressed recent health challenges that had occupied his attention, noting he is feeling better now. Ultimately, the performance in Hungary will be the defining factor in whether the legendary Spanish driver chooses to extend his storied career for another year.