Fernando Alonso hopes the influence of Adrian Newey will be felt earlier than anticipated when the renowned designer joins Aston Martin next year. The 65-year-old was announced as Aston Martin's new shareholder and managing technical partner ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Newey will officially start working for the Silverstone-based team on March 1, 2025, and will lead Aston Martin's development of its 2026 car. New power unit regulations will be introduced that year, with most teams expected to switch focus early next season. As a result, Alonso does not expect Newey to have too much impact on the team's car next year, although it cannot be ruled out. When asked if Newey can influence next season's Aston Martin, Alonso told select media including RacingNews365 : "I would like to say yes, but honestly, I don't think so. "March ‘25, I think the focus for most of the teams will be the ‘26 projects and the change of regulations. You start in March, and until you know everybody, you take your place in the factories, it’s April or May. "And I don't think that it's worth spending too much [time] on the ‘25 campaign unless you are fighting for the championship. "I hope we have a nice surprise, but I doubt it. So I think the ‘26 project should be the first car that he has an influence."
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