Aston Martin’s 2026 hopes derailed in brutal Newey update

Speaking to Racing Tipster, Patrese explained that he caught up with Newey at Goodwood, where the legendary designer gave a frank assessment of the team’s position.

"I spoke with Adrian at Goodwood, and he feels that next year they won’t be ready and not raise expectations," Patrese said. "If they come out and they are ready, it looks better for him! But he seemed honest when he said they would not be ready to go for the championship."

Newey, who joined Aston Martin earlier this year after leaving Red Bull, has been focusing his efforts on the 2026 car rather than the 2025 project.

While Aston Martin have long-term ambitions to lure Verstappen, Patrese suggested Newey was realistic about the timing. "He also said we are not ready to get [Max] Verstappen next year because he doesn't think they can provide him with a winning car.

The comments are a sobering update for a team that has invested heavily in facilities and staff, and that will soon link up with Honda for the new engine regulations in 2026.

With Fernando Alonso in the car, Lawrence Stroll pushing hard as owner, and Enrico Cardile now installed as chief technical officer, Aston Martin still have the ingredients to move forward. But Newey’s words underline the scale of the challenge: Aston Martin's ambitious goals, will require patience as well.

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