F1 News
Can Aston Martin win a world title? '2026 is a huge opportunity'
- Cas van de Kleut
Aston Martin is gearing up for an exciting future, having brought in several high-profile names in recent years to challenge for the world title. With new regulations set to come into effect in 2026, the team is positioning itself to make a significant move forward. However, according to new team boss Andy Cowell, 2026 isn't the only focus for Aston Martin. The team is also looking beyond that year, aiming to build a sustainable path toward long-term success in Formula 1.
Lawrence Stroll has ambitious plans for Aston Martin. One of the most significant additions to the Silverstone-based team is Adrian Newey, the renowned designer who has helped secure championships with Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull Racing in the past. Newey’s expertise is seen as a key factor in Aston Martin’s future push for success at the top of Formula 1.
Is 2026 the year for Aston Martin?
The focus seems to be on 2026, but Cowell explained in Aston Martin's UNDERCUT interview how there is a long-term focus, too: "2026 is a huge opportunity for us, but it's not just about '26, it's about '27 and '28 and '29 and '30. It's about building a team that can achieve sustained success. Yes, '26 is important, but it's just another step on the journey. 2025 is also an important step on our journey, and we are focused on improving our performance this year and carrying positive momentum into 2026.
"We mustn't underestimate the scale of the challenge to bring all these elements together. We've got to make the transition from a customer team to a works team at the same time as the new regulations come into play, and we've got to design and manufacture our own gearbox along with other components of the car that have previously been supplied to us by Mercedes."
Aston Martin finished fifth in the constructor's title in 2024. The team was left disappointed with a podium-less season after standing on the rostrum eight times in 2023. Cowell will be hoping that his leadership can guide the team to better performances in 2025 before the new regulations take hold in 2026.
This article was written in collaboration with Toby Nixon
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