Aston Martin Unveils AMR26: A Bold Step Into Formula 1’s New Era
Aston Martin officially launched its 2026 Formula 1 campaign with a spectacular event in Saudi Arabia, revealing the new livery for its AMR26 challenger. The unveiling marked more than just the presentation of a new colour scheme — it symbolised the beginning of a crucial chapter for the Silverstone-based team.
The launch event featured a speech by team owner Lawrence Stroll, a Q&A session with key partners, a dedicated promotional film and a live musical performance. Swiss cellist Judok Vuille performed pieces composed by Hans Zimmer, adding a dramatic and artistic atmosphere to the introduction of the AMR26.
A Pivotal Car for Aston Martin
The AMR26 represents a major milestone for Aston Martin Aramco. It is the first car shaped by Adrian Newey’s design philosophy since his arrival and also the first project overseen by Technical Director Enrico Cardile. As such, it signals the beginning of a new technical and strategic era for the team.
The 2026 season will also mark Aston Martin’s first campaign as a full works team in partnership with Honda. This new status provides greater freedom in design and development under Formula 1’s sweeping new technical regulations, widely considered one of the biggest rule resets in the sport’s history.
Lawrence Stroll: Building a Championship-Winning Team
Lawrence Stroll described the AMR26 as a defining step for Aston Martin as Formula 1 enters a new era. He emphasised that the 2026 regulations represent a generational reset for the sport and confirmed that the team’s objective is clear: to build a race-winning and championship-contending outfit.
With the completion of the AMR Technology Campus and long-term investment in personnel and infrastructure, Stroll believes Aston Martin now has the tools required to compete at the very top alongside its global partners Honda, Aramco and Valvoline.
Adrian Newey on the 2026 Challenge
Adrian Newey highlighted the uniqueness of the 2026 regulations, noting that both chassis and power unit rules are changing simultaneously — a rare occurrence in Formula 1. According to Newey, the correct design philosophy for a completely new rule set does not emerge instantly; it evolves as teams learn more about the car.
He explained that Aston Martin has adopted a holistic design approach for the AMR26, focusing not on a single standout feature but on how every component works together as a complete package. Establishing strong foundations and ensuring long-term development potential were key priorities to deliver a consistent platform for drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.
Stable Line-Up and New Additions
Aston Martin will retain its experienced driver pairing, with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll entering their fourth consecutive season together. Rising talent Jak Crawford joins as reserve driver after finishing second in the FIA Formula 2 championship last year.
Stoffel Vandoorne will continue supporting the simulator programme, while Pedro de la Rosa will combine media duties with his role as team ambassador. Jenson Button and Jessica Hawkins remain team ambassadors, and Mathilda Paatz will represent Aston Martin in F1 Academy.
Drivers Excited for the Future
Fernando Alonso expressed strong enthusiasm for the new era, describing the combination of new regulations, power units and ideas as an exciting opportunity for Aston Martin. He acknowledged that recent seasons have been challenging but stressed that the lessons learned have strengthened the team. Alonso is eager to begin development work with the AMR26 in Bahrain testing.
Lance Stroll echoed that excitement, highlighting the significance of the AMR26 as the team’s first car built as a full works entry with Honda. He confirmed that initial shakedown running went smoothly and emphasised the importance of understanding the car quickly to deliver performance upgrades throughout the season.
With Bahrain testing approaching and the season opener in Melbourne on the horizon, Aston Martin heads into 2026 with renewed ambition and a clear goal: to become a genuine contender in Formula 1’s new era.
