Aston Martin issue statement as shock Adrian Newey rumours engulf F1

Aston Martin has denied reports that Adrian Newey is to step down from his team principal role at the Silverstone-based squad.

It comes after rumours that the Briton will relinquish those responsibilities and return to just his managing technical partner position gathered momentum across the day.

It was also suggested that Audi team principal Jonathan Wheatley was being lined up to take over the role. However, that would likely come with considerable gardening leave.

In a statement issued to RacingNews365, Aston Martin said: "The team will not be engaging in media speculation about its senior leadership team.

"Adrian Newey continues to lead the team as Team Principal and Managing Technical Partner."

The team has endured a dismal start to the 2026 campaign, with the Honda power unit in the back of the AMR26 down on power, and the battery is causing significant vibrations, something that is not only damaging the chassis but also causing numbness for Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.

In Melbourne, Newey admitted that the Spanish driver feared he would risk "permanent nerve damage" in his hands if he attempted more than 25 consecutive laps in the car.

Whilst the situation appeared to have improved in Shanghai, Stroll's battery failed during the Chinese Grand Prix, and Alonso had to retire due to discomfort.

Audi has also now responded to the speculation, which can be viewed [HERE].