Aston Martin team principal Adrian Newey has detailed a positive element to the “disastrous start” it has endured with Honda.
The Japanese manufacturer struck up an engine partnership deal with Aston Martin for the start of the 2026 campaign and the introduction of new power units.
However, both Aston Martin and Honda have faced struggles of their own and endured a painful opening handful of rounds.
Aston Martin introduced a significant car upgrade last time out in Budapest, while Honda is set to unveil an update of its own when the season resumes in Zandvoort later this month.
When asked to evaluate the partnership between Aston Martin and Honda, Newey told media including RacingNews365: “What’s really progressed is actually the word you just used, relationship.
“Out of what can only be called a disastrous start, the positive of that, because you’re always looking for positives, is that it’s brought Honda and ourselves, AMR, into a very close working relationship.”
Aston Martin's upgrade at the Hungarian Grand Prix saw it gain significant lap time, but it is missing several seconds to the frontrunners.
Newey insisted ensuring the relationship stays harmonious between Aston Martin and Honda is a major consideration as he expressed confidence that performance will follow.
“We continue to develop that in all areas,” he added. “So, I’m very happy with the progress we’re making from a relationship point of view.
“Normally, if relationships improve, then performance also improves.”
Also interesting:
Join RacingNews365's Nick Golding and Samuel Coop as they reflect on the first half of the 2026 F1 season, answering who they believe has been the best, most disappointing, surprised us and requires a huge end to the year.
Rather watch this episode? Then click here!
Get the latest F1 news from RacingNews365 directly in your Google feed! Click on the link below and you’ll see your favourite F1 website appearing even more often. That way, you’ll never miss any news, analyses, interviews, or exclusives.
Follow RacingNews365 on GoogleMost read
In this article
Never miss a thing from the Formula 1 season! Add the 2026 F1 schedule to your calendar at the touch of a button. Subscribe below and put the dates and times of every race directly on your PC or smartphone, so you don't miss a second from the new season.
Download the F1 calendar Download the F1 calendar
A variant with just the race and qualifying is also available.
Click here to download it..
Join the conversation!