Aston Martin-Honda partnership faces shambolic start

Newey consigned to 'doom loop' as new team battles technical issues with overweight, vibration-prone power unit

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Aston Martin's highly anticipated 2026 Formula 1 season has gotten off to a disastrous start, with the team's new Honda power unit plagued by issues including excessive weight and severe vibrations that have damaged components and caused drivers' hands to go numb. Technical director Adrian Newey, who joined the team last year, is now forced to navigate a complex political landscape to secure concessions from F1 authorities that would allow Honda to upgrade the power unit sooner than planned.

Why it matters

Newey, one of the most respected engineers in motorsports, is known for his aversion to the political side of Formula 1. But he now finds himself having to lobby for special treatment from the sport's governing body in order to get Aston Martin's season back on track, lest the team face an embarrassing and potentially career-ending campaign.

The details

Aston Martin's new AMR26 car was finished late and the team had to cut short pre-season testing due to the power unit issues. The Honda PU is reported to be up to 15kg overweight, but that pales in comparison to the vibration problems that have caused the car's mirrors to fall off and left drivers Alonso and Stroll with numb hands after just a handful of laps. In the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, both drivers were forced to pit frequently and retire early to conserve components.

  • Aston Martin announced Newey as 'managing technical partner' in 2025.
  • The team secured an exclusive power unit supply deal with Honda ahead of the 2026 season.
  • Pre-season testing had to be cut short in February 2026 due to the power unit issues.
  • The Australian Grand Prix took place on March 17, 2026.
  • The next race is the Chinese Grand Prix, including a sprint race, on April 13-14, 2026.

The players

Adrian Newey

Renowned Formula 1 engineer who joined Aston Martin as 'managing technical partner' in 2025, but is now tasked with navigating the team's technical and political challenges.

Koji Watanabe

President, CEO and Representative Director of Honda Racing Corporation, who attended the pre-Australian GP press conference alongside Newey.

Fernando Alonso

Veteran driver for Aston Martin who has experienced similar power unit struggles in the past with the ill-fated McLaren-Honda partnership.

Lance Stroll

Aston Martin driver who also experienced issues in the Australian Grand Prix due to the power unit problems.

Lawrence Stroll

Owner of the Aston Martin F1 team, known for his impatience and willingness to make major changes to the team's leadership.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.