Fernando Alonso shared positive impressions after testing Aston Martin's 2026 car, the AMR26, for the first time at the Barcelona Shakedown. The 44-year-old driver highlighted the valuable contributions of new team designer Adrian Newey. Alonso noted that Newey is 'always teaching us something.'
Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin's veteran driver, took to the track in Barcelona for the inaugural shakedown of the team's 2026 Formula 1 car, the AMR26. This prototype, the first designed by Adrian Newey since joining the team, marks a significant step in Aston Martin's preparations for the upcoming regulations era.
The 44-year-old Spaniard, who has been with Aston Martin since 2023, described his initial experience positively. Speaking after the session, Alonso emphasized Newey's influence, stating that the renowned engineer is 'always teaching us something.' Newey, a four-time world championship-winning designer previously with Red Bull, brings extensive expertise to the Silverstone-based squad.
The Barcelona Shakedown provided an early glimpse into the AMR26's potential, though full details on performance remain under wraps ahead of the 2026 season. Alonso's reflections underscore the optimism within the team as they aim to leverage Newey's innovations to challenge the established order in Formula 1.
This testing phase is crucial for Aston Martin, which has invested heavily in its future lineup. While the shakedown focused on basic systems and aerodynamics, Alonso's feedback suggests a promising start to the development process.
