Aston Martin has announced a sweeping restructure of its Formula 1 leadership, confirming that legendary designer Adrian Newey will take over as Team Principal from next season. The move marks a dramatic shift in the team’s operational hierarchy as it prepares for the new 2026 regulatory era.
Adrian Newey’s Promotion Marks a New Era at Silverstone
Newey, long regarded as one of the greatest technical minds in F1, will now lead the Silverstone-based squad while simultaneously continuing his role at the head of the technical division.
A motorsport journalist wrote on X, “Adrian Newey is going to become Aston Martin team principal in 2026. Andy Cowell – previously team principal and CEO – becomes chief strategy officer #F1.”
Current team principal and CEO Andy Cowell will transition into the role of chief strategy officer, a position designed to oversee long-term competitive planning while allowing Newey complete control of racing operations.
Adrian Newey is going to become Aston Martin team principal in 2026
Andy Cowell – previously team principal and CEO – becomes chief strategy officer #F1
— Chris Medland (@ChrisMedlandF1) November 26, 2025
The restructuring comes ahead of Formula One’s most significant overhaul in a generation. The 2026 season will introduce sweeping technical changes, a revised power unit formula, and the addition of an extra team to the grid.
Talking about his expanded role, Newey said, “Over the last nine months, I have seen great individual talent within our Team. I’m looking forward to taking on this additional role as we put ourselves in the best possible position to compete in 2026, where we will face an entirely new position with Aston Martin now a works team combined with the considerable challenge faced by the new regulations.”
Newey also highlighted Cowell’s importance in the team’s long-term project, “Andy’s new role, focusing on the integration of the new PU with our three key partners, will be pivotal in this journey.”
Newey has played a crucial role in numerous drivers’ world championships and constructors’ titles across three different F1 teams. However, he has never previously held the role of team principal.
Team owner and Executive Chairman, Lawrence Stroll, said, “Andy Cowell has been a great leader this year. He’s focused on building a world-class team and getting them to work well together, as well as fostering a culture that puts the race car back at the heart of what we do. This leadership change is a mutual decision we have reached in the interest of the Team.
“I’m also pleased that Adrian Newey will step into the Team Principal role, which will enable him to make full use of his creative and technical expertise. Both these changes will ensure the Team is best placed to play to their collective strengths.”
The reshuffle also marks a striking trend for Aston Martin: four different team principals in four years. However, with the latest structural change, their ambition is to establish itself as a consistent front-running force next season, under the new rules.