Aston Martin issue statement of intent with new F1 car 'freedom'

Aston Martin has explained its new sense of "freedom" upon the launch of its 2026 F1 car, the AMR26.

The Silverstone-based squad has unveiled its livery for the season ahead in Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with title sponsor Aramco, to kick off its new era as the Honda works team in F1.

Referring to the AMR26 as a "clear statement of intent", the Lawrence Stroll-owned operation is making the most of having new team principal Adrian Newey at the helm, citing the switch to Honda power from being a Mercedes customer as "opening more design freedom and opportunity".

Early signs suggest Aston Martin has delivered on that chance, with its car the most radical-looking of the 10 teams that tested behind closed doors at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya late last month.

Aside from Williams, which failed to make it to Spain, Aston Martin completed the fewest laps during the private test, with just 65.

Lance Stroll was particularly unlucky, getting just four laps out on circuit over the week.

However, there is considerable intrigue surrounding the team and its first Newey-designed car.

Having finished seventh in the F1 constructors' standings last year, it will be hoping its 2026 challenger can help return it to the top half of the field — although the team has made it clear it has loftier aspirations than that.

Aston Martin has said the AMR26 is "the result of a series of decisions made by design to create a path to competing at the very highest level and, ultimately, to win."

Check out the AMR26's livery [HERE].

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