F1 Today: Newey shocks with Honda revelation as Hamilton raises Red Bull doubts

Newey provided a major update ahead of the race weekend in Australia. The Aston Martin team principal revealed that both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will not be able to complete the Grand Prix in Melbourne.

Speaking at the small hospitality units in the Australian paddock, Newey, alongside Honda chief Koji Watanabe, revealed the current situation at Aston Martin and Honda amid speculation about technical problems.

The team principal quickly flagged a major issue the team has been experiencing regarding engine vibration. Newey, highlighting the severity of the problem with the power unit, noted that Alonso could not drive longer than 25 laps and teammate Stroll only 15.

The 67-year-old continued by explaining that the problem with the car could lead to lasting nerve damage if either driver opted to continue for the full duration of the race. Stroll, in his assessment of the issue, also used a few colourful expressions to describe the team’s current struggle.

While Newey and the Aston Martin team stole the spotlight with their shocking revelation, Hamilton expressed his belief that the Red Bull Racing outfit are yet to show their true hand after Bahrain testing and still has plenty in reserve.

The seven-time world champion, who outlined his aim for the season as winning the championship, highlighted both Mercedes’ team strengths before suggesting Red Bull may not have revealed their true pace yet.

Hamilton’s comments on Red Bull potentially sandbagging follow those of his former Mercedes teammate, George Russell, who also acknowledged that there remains a possibility the Milton Keynes-based outfit opted to run a lower engine mode to deflect attention.