Aston Martin handed unanimous verdict over team principal position

Aston Martin has stressed that it firmly backs Adrian Newey as its team principal, although the majority of Formula 1 fans believe change is required.

Over half of F1 fans believe Aston Martin should appoint Jonathan Wheatley as team principal, according to a recent RacingNews365 poll, as speculation continues to swirl around the Silverstone-based squad's leadership structure.

The survey revealed that 51.6% of respondents want the team to sign Wheatley, who dramatically departed from Audi in March citing personal reasons after less than a year in charge. 

Christian Horner, currently linked with Alpine, emerged as the second choice with 21% support.

Wheatley has been heavily rumoured as a potential replacement for Newey in the day-to-day team principal role, allowing the design guru to focus purely on technical matters as managing technical partner. 

The former Red Bull sporting director, who spent 18 years with the Milton Keynes outfit, fits the profile of what Aston Martin reportedly needs, someone experienced and respected who can bridge the gap between management and the trackside operation.

Despite the speculation, no deal has materialised. The team has maintained that Newey continues to lead as team principal, whilst Mike Krack handles much of the public-facing responsibilities as chief trackside officer.

The poll also showed that just 8.1% of fans believe the current structure should remain unchanged, with an equal percentage backing Krack's return to the full team principal role. 

Aston Martin's unconventional setup has come under scrutiny following a disastrous start to 2026, with both cars retiring in Australia and China whilst the team struggled as the slowest during pre-season testing.

Check out the full poll results below!