Aston Martin Appoints F1 Legend Adrian Newey as Team Principal

London, UK – Formula 1 design mastermind Adrian Newey is set to take the reins as Aston Martin’s team principal next year, marking a major leadership shake-up within the British outfit. The move follows a restructure that sees Andy Cowell step down from his role as team principal and CEO after just 13 months.

Newey, who joined Aston Martin in March as managing technical partner following a celebrated career at Red Bull, Williams, and McLaren, has guided the team’s technical operations since his arrival. Under his new role, he will oversee the full technical department, including trackside operations, while Cowell transitions to chief strategy officer, focusing on engine partnerships with Honda and fuel suppliers.

Aston Martin stated the changes “allow Newey and Cowell to focus on their individual strengths and expertise, ensuring organizational efficiency.” Sources indicate the decision was prompted by internal disagreements over the 2026 car design and team management, highlighting Newey’s unmatched technical authority.

Team owner Lawrence Stroll praised Cowell’s contributions: “Andy has been a great leader, building a world-class team and fostering a culture that prioritizes the race car. This leadership change is a mutual decision reached in the interest of the team.”

Newey, whose illustrious F1 career includes 12 drivers’ and 13 constructors’ championships, commented: “Over the last nine months, I’ve seen great individual talent within our team. I look forward to taking on this role as we prepare for the new 2026 regulations and aim to maximize our competitive position as a works team.”

The leadership change makes Newey Aston Martin’s fourth team principal in four years, following Otmar Szafnauer, Mike Krack, and Cowell. While former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner expressed interest in joining Aston Martin, insiders confirmed he will not assume any role with the team.

Cowell, a former Mercedes F1 engine head, added: “Having set the foundations, it’s an appropriate time for me to take a different role, focusing on the integration of the new power unit with our key partners.”

The restructuring comes as Aston Martin gears up for a major regulatory overhaul in 2026, with expectations high that Newey’s expertise will accelerate the team’s rise in the competitive F1 landscape.