Adrian Newey Resigns as Aston Martin F1 Team Principal

Adrian Newey will relinquish his role as team principal at Aston Martin. Jonathan Wheatley is set to replace him.

Filmogaz.com understands Newey will step back to focus solely on technical work. The change follows a difficult start to the 2026 F1 season.

On-track problems and technical focus

Aston Martin’s AMR26 has suffered persistent power unit trouble. New partner Honda’s unit has prevented the car from completing races.

That reliability crisis contributed to the decision. Newey will return to concentrating on car design and aero development.

Jonathan Wheatley’s move and timing

Wheatley joined Audi in May last year. He has worked there with CEO Mattia Binotto for about ten months.

His return to England depends on the terms of his Audi contract. A formal transition date has not been announced.

Role changes at Audi

Audi now faces choices on leadership. The manufacturer must recruit a new team principal or reorganise internally.

Filmogaz.com reports Audi granted Wheatley a degree of autonomy. He reported straight to the board while at Audi.

Background and connections

Wheatley spent two decades at Red Bull earlier in his career. Aston Martin’s Silverstone campus sits about 20 miles from Red Bull’s HQ.

Those long ties could ease his switch back. Sources suggest Newey may have endorsed Wheatley to owner Lawrence Stroll.

Newey’s short spell as principal

Newey’s promotion to team principal was announced four months ago. His appointment became effective at the start of 2026.

The tenure proved brief amid the team’s ongoing problems. He will maintain a senior technical role after stepping down.

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