Aston Martin’s significant upgrade
Aston Martin is set to introduce a substantial upgrade package at the Hungarian Grand Prix, marking their first major update of the current season. The revised car features a new, lighter chassis and significant aerodynamic changes. This approach of introducing all new parts at once, rather than smaller, incremental updates, was chosen for its efficiency within the sport’s spending cap. Despite this, the team has progressively fallen behind the competition in recent races.
Fernando Alonso expressed optimism about the upgrade but also cautioned against high expectations. He noted that the Hungarian Grand Prix circuit is generally favorable for the team, as power is not the most critical factor there. Alonso emphasized his focus on understanding the car’s new direction and whether it can unlock performance.
The team’s chief technical officer, Adrian Newey, explained that an early decision was made to halt developments in the first half of the year. This was a difficult choice, as it meant the gap to leading teams would widen. However, it allowed the team to reorganize, implement new systems, and conduct thorough research for future developments, including the 2026 car. The upgrade package for Hungary is considered the first stage of this process, with a second stage planned for Zandvoort.
Challenges and expectations
Aston Martin has faced significant challenges since the beginning of the 2026 season. The AMR26, despite initial excitement and praise for its design, did not translate its looks into on-track performance. Both the chassis and the Honda power unit have fallen below expectations. At the season opener in Australia, the team was near the back of the grid in qualifying, and chronic vibrations limited their race performance.
These performance issues continued through early rounds, with the team struggling on high-speed circuits like Silverstone and Spa-Francorchamps, where engine performance is crucial. At Spa, Alonso and Lance Stroll were significantly off the pace, highlighting the performance deficit. Newey acknowledged that the team started serious work on the 2026 car several months behind rivals, contributing to their current situation.
The decision to delay upgrades was a painful one, as other teams continued to improve. However, Newey believes it was the correct investment for the team’s future, aiming for a significant step forward in the second half of the current season and an even larger one for next year. The upgrade package includes weight reduction, requiring re-homologation and crash testing of the forward chassis, and a substantially revised aerodynamic package. While the core structure remains similar, the goal is to bring the car very close to the weight limit.
Alonso’s future and team dynamics
Fernando Alonso, who will be 45 on 29 July, is currently out of contract at the end of the season and is considering his future in Formula 1. He has reiterated his long-term commitment to Aston Martin, stating he has a contract and is not moving. However, his decision to continue racing in F1 will not solely depend on the performance of the new upgrade.
Alonso has expressed concerns about the high levels of energy management required by the latest generation of F1 engines, particularly on high-speed tracks. He found driving at Silverstone and Spa to be unenjoyable due to these limitations. He seeks the adrenaline and enjoyment that F1 cars previously provided. The Hungarian Grand Prix circuit, being slower, is expected to mitigate some of these engine management issues.
He believes the team will eventually resolve its problems, stating his confidence that Adrian Newey will provide a top-tier car. Alonso also trusts that Honda will address the power unit issues in due course. He is focused on what he will do in the coming years, feeling motivated and fast, but emphasizes the need to enjoy his work. The Honda engine is not part of this weekend’s upgrade, with a development engine expected at the Dutch Grand Prix after the summer break.
Chief Trackside Officer Mike Krack highlighted the team’s primary goal for the upgrades: to return to competitive racing. He noted that the period without upgrades is now over, and the team is looking forward to seeing the results in Budapest. The collaboration between Aston Martin and Honda has also strengthened through these challenging times, with both parties working together to overcome difficulties. Reserve driver Jak Crawford has been instrumental in development, contributing to simulator work and sampling the upgraded AMR26.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
Harry Loxley is a Senior Football Correspondent at NewsGB.org. He spent his early career reporting East Midlands football. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Derby and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Derby, he watches non-league and runs a fan podcast. “Good football writing follows the people, not just the points.”