Newey sees end of a nightmare, expects Alonso to stay at Aston Martin

Formula One designer Adrian Newey described the recent performance of Aston Martin's car as a "nightmare" but expressed optimism following the heavily upgraded car's track debut at the Hungarian Grand Prix. The team, which has struggled significantly this season, hopes the new developments will mark a return to competitiveness.

“

These first races have been a complete nightmare. Hopefully we can get at least to a point of respectability now and then from there we can try to keep moving forward.

During the first practice session at the Hungaroring, driver Fernando Alonso secured 13th fastest lap, a notable improvement from the team's usual position at the back of the grid. Aston Martin has only managed to score one point in ten rounds this season, placing them second to last in the constructors' standings. Newey, however, is reluctant to set specific performance targets, preferring a methodical approach to problem-solving and team collaboration.

“

I've never been a fan of setting goals. I'm much more of a fan of working logically through problems, getting everybody working together, getting the culture together.

Newey emphasized the importance of Fernando Alonso to the team, highlighting the double champion's significant contributions in terms of feedback and driving ability. "I'm pretty confident that Fernando is enjoying his time with us and that we will continue our relationship," Newey stated, indicating a strong likelihood that Alonso will extend his contract with Aston Martin.

“

So for us of course it's important. I'm pretty confident that Fernando is enjoying his time with us and that we will continue our relationship.

The team's partnership with engine supplier Honda has also been a point of discussion. Despite a challenging start to the season with Honda's engine being the least competitive, Newey noted that the relationship is improving. "Out of what can only be called a disastrous start, the positive of that... is its brought Honda and ourselves into a very close working relationship," he said, expressing satisfaction with the progress in collaboration and anticipating performance gains.

“

Out of what can only be called a disastrous start, the positive of that... is its brought Honda and ourselves into a very close working relationship. And we continue to develop that in all areas. So I think I'm very happy with the progress we're making from a relationship point of view, And normally relationships improve and performance also improves.