Adrian Newey assesses Aston Martin’s upgrades ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix
Adrian Newey has provided his insight on Aston Martin’s significant upgrades as the team prepares for the Hungarian Grand Prix, following a challenging start to the season with only one point earned through Fernando Alonso, reports BritPanorama.
This weekend, Aston Martin is implementing drastic changes aimed at improving their competitiveness on the grid. The team has modified the chassis and significantly reduced the car’s weight, resulting in what can be described as a virtually new vehicle.
Since the Belgian Grand Prix, only the front suspension, engine, and gearbox have been retained. Newey stated, “Very early days in terms of understanding the new package. Provisional results are promising. We will have some more steps in Monza and Baku, so it is the first part of our planned upgrade. Very short on parts, so being careful with it and trying to learn all about it.”
During the first practice session, Alonso recorded the 13th fastest time. In contrast, teammate Lance Stroll faced difficulties due to a rear suspension failure. Newey reflected on the issues, saying, “Everybody is feverishly trying to understand what went wrong and it is only once we have an understanding that we can comment on what we do next. The area involved is not what has been changed, so in that sense it was very unexpected.”
Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc topped the session, nearly half a second ahead of Max Verstappen, with Lewis Hamilton in third place. Mercedes driver George Russell secured fifth after Kimi Antonelli, who is leading the drivers’ championship, missed the session due to a replacement driver.
Antonelli, who won the Belgian Grand Prix, holds a 45-point lead over Hamilton, placing him in a strong position as the season progresses. Following his victory, Antonelli remarked, “It’s great to be back on the top step after obviously a few difficult rounds. It was a tough win because Charles was quick and we had to hold onto them.”
As the teams adapt their strategies and cars, the competitive landscape of Formula 1 continues to evolve, making every race a critical opportunity for both established and emerging teams alike. The stakes are high, and the road ahead promises to be nothing short of exhilarating.
