Newey breaks his silence to reveal his thoughts on the new rules – In his first interview since joining Aston Martin, Adrian Newey breaks his silence to reveal his thoughts on the future of F1, the 2026 rules and his new role – In his first interview since joining the Silverstone-based team in March, F1’s most celebrated designer talks openly about his new role, the state of Aston Martin’s cars, his thoughts on the major rule changes coming in 2026 and even what he’s been scribbling on his iconic sketchbook.
While Newey’s move from Red Bull to Aston Martin sent shockwaves through the paddock, the man himself has remained characteristically discreet – until now. The interview, published on Aston Martin’s official website, covers a wide range of topics and offers a rare insight into the mind of the man many consider to be the greatest technical figure in the history of the sport.
Minimal role in AMR25, but strategic influence growing
Aston Martin has endured a difficult start to the 2025 Formula One season. The AMR25 has fallen short of expectations, raising questions about the direction of the team and the effectiveness of its recent development path. While not directly responsible for the design of the current car, Newey confirmed that he has begun to contribute to its improvement.
“There is a small team working on the aerodynamics of the current car,” said Newey.
“I’ve had a couple of conversations with them, talking about the car and what we can do with it. Lawrence [Stroll] understandably wants us to be as good as we can be in 2025.”
Newey’s influence on the AMR25 remains limited, as might be expected given that the car was well into development when he arrived. But his presence is already being felt. By lending his vast experience to the aerodynamics group and helping to interpret the car’s behaviour and data, he is slowly helping to steer Aston Martin back towards competitiveness – even if that influence is more strategic than hands-on for now.
Focus shifts to 2026 and Aston Martin’s new era
While Newey has dipped his toes into the current campaign, his primary focus is crystal clear: Aston Martin’s 2026 car, the first car to be built entirely under the new technical and engine regulations. Internally dubbed the “26-inch car” by Newey himself, it will be the team’s first real statement in the sport’s next era – and one that will be heavily influenced by his vision.
“The new regulations are a bit scary,” Newey admitted.
“Initially I thought they would be so prescriptive that there wouldn’t be much left for a designer. But as you start to dig in, you realise there’s actually more room for creativity than you might think.”
This has become something of a trademark observation for Newey. He recalls having similar thoughts during the last major overhaul of F1’s regulations ahead of the 2022 season. At that time, teams pursued dramatically different design philosophies, resulting in a very diverse field of concepts – some successful, some not. He believes this trend could be repeated in 2026.
“It’s very likely that we’ll see a similar situation again,” he said. “I’m sure people will come up with different solutions. That’s what makes F1 so exciting when there’s a big reset.”
Power unit puzzle adds complexity – and excitement
What makes 2026 even more intriguing is the simultaneous overhaul of both the chassis and power unit regulations. Unlike previous rule changes, which have often focused on either aero or engine tweaks, 2026 will fundamentally change both sides of the technical equation. For a designer like Newey, who has always prided himself on understanding every aspect of the car, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
“It’s… interesting. And a bit scary,” he said with a grin, referring to the simultaneous introduction of new chassis and engine regulations.
Although he offered no concrete clues as to the design direction Aston Martin will take, Newey hinted – tongue firmly in cheek – that the car is likely to remain true to its identity. “I can see it being green.”
For now, the team is working hard behind the scenes to integrate the technical requirements of the new regulations with the brand new power unit being developed in conjunction with Honda. The 2026 season will mark Honda’s return as a works engine partner – another element that is likely to have helped lure Newey into what is fast becoming one of the most ambitious long-term projects in the paddock.
The mystery of the sketchpad – and a planned return to Monaco
Newey’s engineering brilliance is perhaps matched only by his mystique, best symbolised by the leather-bound sketchpad he is often seen carrying on the grid. The image of the legendary designer calmly pacing the pit lane before a Grand Prix, pen in hand, is iconic. But what’s actually in that notebook?
“Not much,” laughs Newey. “Just a few sketches, ideas and prompts. It’s really just a way of writing down what’s on my mind.”
He admitted that even he sometimes can’t decipher what he’s written.
“Sometimes I can’t read my own words. Then it’s incomprehensible to me too”. Nevertheless, it plays a crucial role in his creative process: a space to crystallise concepts and begin to shape the vague into the tangible.
Despite his absence from the paddock so far this season, Newey confirmed that he plans to return for the Monaco Grand Prix – a race where his presence has long been a fixture. “I’m planning to be in Monaco,” he revealed. “With my notebook, of course.”
A quiet start, but a loud statement of intent
Adrian Newey’s arrival at Aston Martin marks a monumental change – not just for the team, but for Formula One as a whole. His departure from Red Bull, where he helped build a dynasty, opens a new chapter for himself and a team that has been longing to take the final step from midfield challenger to title contender.
While it’s too early for Newey to leave his full mark on the AMR25, his insights and involvement are already laying the groundwork for what could be one of the most transformative projects of the modern era of Formula One. The 2026 regulations present a rare opportunity to rebalance the competitive equation. With Newey at the helm of its next-generation car, Aston Martin now has every reason to believe it can be at the centre of that reset.
As for what to expect in Monaco, don’t expect a revolution just yet. But with Newey on the grid, sketchpad in hand, chances are the future of F1 is already being quietly drawn.
With over 30 years of experience in Formula 1 as an insider journalist, I have built trusted connections across the paddock, from race engineers and mechanics to senior team figures. At The Judge 13, I and a handful of trusted colleagues share exclusive Formula 1 news, expert analysis and behind-the-scenes stories you will not find in mainstream motorsport media.
