Aston Martin is considering a new team principal, but something else is crucial: stability, clear structures and patience in the build-up
On the fringes of the Japan weekend, the focus in the Formula 1 paddock is increasingly on Aston Martin. The focus is not only on the team’s sporting form, but above all on its internal set-up. The central question is whether Adrian Newey can permanently fill the dual role of team principal and technical director – or whether this is precisely where a structural problem lies.
When he was appointed, there were already doubts as to whether Newey would really be able to take on the classic tasks of a team principal. This skepticism has now been confirmed, at least in part, as the Briton himself admits that the role distracts him “a little” from his actual work. This balancing act is particularly challenging in a phase in which the engine project with Honda is being developed in parallel.
In addition, Aston Martin is still being built up organizationally. Newey compares the situation with his early years at Red Bull Racing, when it was also a matter of creating structures, improving communication and harmonizing internal processes. It is precisely at this stage that a clear allocation of roles is crucial – and not additional complexity.
Wheatley as a logical solution
With this in mind, the idea of a classic team boss seems only logical. Jonathan Wheatley in particular is seen as an obvious solution, not least because of his experience and his well-known strength in team management. He also knows Newey from their time together, which makes a functioning collaboration more likely.
Wheatley has exactly the qualities that Aston Martin currently needs: structure, communication and the ability to bring a team together in a transformation phase. Especially in the sensitive interaction with Honda, he could play a central role and act as a stable interface.
Honda project as a factor of uncertainty
Because the sporting situation is tense. The new Honda project is still struggling with fundamental problems, and internally it was apparently underestimated for a long time just how big the differences are compared to the successful years with Red Bull. It only became clear late on that important personnel resources were missing – a circumstance that raises questions about internal coordination.
This situation clearly shows how important stable management structures are. Especially in a complex project with several partners, clear responsibilities and long-term planning are required. Frequent changes here would do more damage than progress.
The decisive factor: stability
This makes it clear: as useful as a new team principal may be, he is not the real solution. Aston Martin’s greatest need is stability. Possible structural adjustments must be followed by a phase in which a long-term plan is worked on consistently, without constantly changing direction.
The prerequisites for success are in place: a modern infrastructure, top-class personnel and, in Newey, one of the best constructors in Formula 1. But after the difficult start to the 2026 season, patience is needed above all – even if that is an uncomfortable prospect for drivers like Fernando Alonso. It is precisely this patience that could be the decisive factor in the end.