Ferrari miss out on designer Newey: 'Deal with this team is complete'

Adrian Newey is said to have made his mind up: the top designer has decided to accept the offer from Aston Martin. At least, that is what several Italian media, including Autosprint and Corriere dello Sport, are reporting this Tuesday. According to the Italians, the deal will be officially announced in September.

Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll reportedly won Newey over. Newey is said to have been enthused by Aston Martin's future plans, which are said to be realized with another hefty investment in its facilities. In fact, it is said Stroll wants to invest one billion dollars. Newey should expect a salary of $100 million for four years.

Moreover, Newey is said to have been keen to continue working with Honda, the engine manufacturer with which Newey and Red Bull have been very successful in recent years. Newey is said to consider it important that the power unit supplier facilitates Aston Martin as the sole team, and so there is no relationship as a customer team.

So if the rumour is true - and there have been many in recent months - Newey has rejected Ferrari which could be a blow to Lewis Hamilton, who praised the designer earlier in the season. The Italians hoped to bring Newey to Italy immediately after he announced he was leaving Red Bull Racing. Williams and McLaren also showed interest in Newey's services.