Designer Adrian Newey says Aston Martin's upgraded car shows promise, and he expects Fernando Alonso to remain with the team.
Key facts
- •Aston Martin has earned only one point in the first 10 rounds of the season.
- •Fernando Alonso is set to turn 45 years old next week.
- •The team's single point was awarded after Cadillac's Sergio Perez was penalized in Monaco.
- •Newey stated he is confident that Alonso will continue his relationship with the team.
- •The partnership with engine supplier Honda is described as improving in all areas.
Adrian Newey, the top Formula One designer and team principal at Aston Martin, expressed optimism following the track debut of the team's heavily upgraded car at the Hungarian Grand Prix on Friday. After a difficult start to the season, Newey stated he hopes the team can reach a point of respectability. He also indicated he expects two-time champion Fernando Alonso, who turns 45 next week, to continue his tenure with the team.
Performance and Team Goals
Aston Martin has struggled significantly this season, scoring only one point in 10 rounds and currently sitting second-to-last in the standings, ahead of only Cadillac. During the first practice session at the Hungaroring, Alonso recorded the 13th fastest lap, which Newey noted was an improvement over recent performances near the back of the field. Newey declined to set specific performance targets, stating he prefers to focus on logical problem-solving and team culture.
Partnership with Honda
Newey addressed the team's partnership with Honda, describing the initial phase as a "disastrous start" with the engine being the least competitive on the grid. However, he noted that the challenges have fostered a closer working relationship between the two parties. He expressed satisfaction with the progress of this collaboration, noting that improved relationships typically lead to better performance.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Channel NewsAsia.
