Formula 1 design legend Adrian Newey is set to take on the role of team principal at Aston Martin in 2026, as part of a major internal restructuring aimed at maximizing the team’s competitive edge. This change sees Andy Cowell move from his position as team principal and CEO just 13 months after joining the team, transitioning instead to a strategic role overseeing Aston Martin’s engine and fuel partnerships.

Newey joined Aston Martin in March 2025 following his exit from Red Bull Racing, initially as the team’s managing technical partner on a five-year deal reportedly worth up to £30m annually, including bonuses. His appointment as team principal reflects the team’s recognition of his unparalleled expertise in car design and technical operations, accumulated over decades in Formula 1.

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Aston Martin Restructures Leadership

Aston Martin has confirmed that the leadership changes are designed to focus on individual strengths and organizational efficiency. While Cowell will continue to play a vital role as chief strategy officer, Newey will oversee technical operations, including trackside management and the design of the 2026 car.

According to insiders, disagreements between Newey and Cowell over team management and car development accelerated the decision. Newey’s reputation—having won 14 drivers’ and 12 constructors’ championships with Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull—made him the natural choice for the team principal role.

Team owner Lawrence Stroll commented:
“Andy Cowell has been a great leader, building a world-class team and fostering a culture centered on the race car. This leadership change is a mutual decision, allowing us to fully utilize Adrian Newey’s creative and technical expertise.”

Newey himself said:
“Over the last nine months, I have seen great individual talent within our team. I look forward to taking on this additional role as we prepare to compete in 2026 under new regulations, now as a full works team. Andy’s role focusing on engine integration will be pivotal in this journey.”

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Background: Aston Martin’s F1 Leadership Changes

Newey will become Aston Martin’s fourth team principal in four years, following Otmar Szafnauer, Mike Krack, and Cowell. The team had been exploring leadership options for some time, reportedly considering Andreas Seidl, Mattia Binotto, and Martin Whitmarsh before settling on Newey.

Meanwhile, former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner reportedly sought a role and shareholding at Aston Martin but will not be joining the team. Sources reveal that Newey showed Horner the Aston Martin factory in a private tour, though no formal role was offered.

Cowell, a former Mercedes F1 engine boss, said his move to chief strategy officer comes after laying the groundwork necessary for Newey to step into leadership:
“Having set the foundations, it is an appropriate time for me to take a different role.”

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Looking Ahead to 2026

Aston Martin faces a crucial 2026 season as a fully-fledged works team, navigating new technical regulations and aiming to compete with the sport’s top teams. With Newey at the helm, the team hopes to leverage his technical genius and decades of championship-winning experience to improve car performance and race operations.

The F1 world will be watching closely as Newey transitions from technical mastermind to team principal, combining strategic leadership with hands-on technical oversight.