Aston Martin consider replacing Adrian Newey but rule out Christian Horner

Aston Martin are actively searching for a new team principal to succeed Adrian Newey after a disastrous start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, with former Red Bull boss Christian Horner ruled out for the role.

The Silverstone-based squad have failed to score a single point in the opening rounds in Australia and China.

Drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll both suffered retirements at the recent Chinese Grand Prix, compounding early-season misery for the manufacturer.

Reliability woes and Honda engine struggles

Significant concerns regarding engine reliability emerged before the opening race in Melbourne when half of their allocated Honda battery packs failed during practice.

The legendary aerodynamicist has pointed to a lack of experience within the engine supplier’s workforce as a primary cause of their current track difficulties.

Newey noted that the Japanese manufacturer returned to the sport with a significantly reduced staff and are struggling to recover under current financial regulations.

“They re-entered with let’s say only, I’m guessing, 30 per cent of their original team and now in a budget cap era.”

“So they started very much on the back foot and unfortunately they’ve struggled to catch back up.”

Tension builds amid search for new leadership

Reports from Spain suggest that palpable tension and disappointment have engulfed the team following the double non-finish in Shanghai.

This perceived leadership void has prompted the British marque to seek a new figurehead to handle management and public relations responsibilities.

Despite the anticipated reshuffle, the 65-year-old engineering mastermind is expected to transition into a revised technical role rather than leave the team entirely.

Aston Martin will have another opportunity to secure their first championship points of the campaign when the paddock moves to Japan next week.