Stroll signals AMR26’s true potential amid Aston Martin early-season woes

Stroll, who was initially quizzed about the mood in the team amid their challenging start to the campaign, noted how every member continues to focus on improving performance as quickly as possible.

“Well, everyone’s just working as hard as they can to improve the situation for sure. None of us are happy with where we are. It’s not the start to the season that we hoped for, but it is what it is, and we’re just working as hard as possible to improve it,” Stroll said during the Japanese Grand Prix press conference.

When asked about the AMR26’s potential if the power unit issues are resolved, Stroll struck a cautiously optimistic tone. The 27-year-old highlighted specific areas needing improvement, particularly in high-speed corners.

“I think so, yes. We know we have issues on the engine side. There are areas we need to work on with the car. I think high-speed corners are still a weakness for us. So yeah, we’re just trying to improve in all areas that need work, and it’s just about bringing performance as quickly as we can,” he added.

The Aston Martin team has failed to complete a Grand Prix distance due to the power unit vibration issues plaguing the AMR26 challenger. Earlier, Stroll himself admitted to what the team considers the most painful part of driving the 2026 car.

Earlier, Aston Martin team principal Adrian Newey stressed his belief that the AMR26 could be the fifth-fastest car on the grid.

The 67-year-old, in his assessment of the chassis, offered an air of optimism, noting that if the issue with the power unit is resolved, the team could challenge well ahead of the midfield.

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