Aston Martin is facing fresh scrutiny over its leadership structure just months into the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Adrian Newey’s position at the helm has come into focus amid a difficult start to the campaign, though the team has publicly played down any suggestion of immediate change.
In a statement issued to Motorsport Week, Aston Martin said: “The team will not be engaging in media speculation about its senior leadership team. Adrian Newey continues to lead the team as Team Principal and Managing Technical Partner.”
Despite that stance, internal adjustments are understood to be under consideration.
Newey is expected to place greater emphasis on technical development as the team works through early setbacks with its AMR26.
Who might replace Newey at Aston Martin?
Jonathan Wheatley has emerged as a leading candidate to strengthen the Aston Martin leadership structure.
He is currently leading Audi’s F1 project, and his return to the UK would come less than a year after joining the German manufacturer, although the timing depends on his existing contract.
Wheatley brings extensive experience; he spent two decades at Red Bull before joining Audi.
The potential change comes at a challenging moment, as Aston Martin’s performance has fallen short of expectations. The team needs stability and direction as it works through technical setbacks.
Fixing the car is now more important than managing the wider operation, and his technical expertise remains central to Aston Martin’s long-term plans.
Aston Martin’s reshuffle looks like a necessary response to early struggles. But it also underlines how quickly pressure can reshape even the most ambitious projects in Formula 1.
READ MORE – Fernando Alonso details Aston Martin ‘journey’ as struggles continue
Originally published by motorsportweek.com —
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