Current Formula 1 titleholder Max Verstappen believes that former Red Bull designer Adrian Newey will “thrive” in his inaugural assignment as a team leader at Aston Martin.
Subsequent to the most recent organizational change at Aston Martin, renowned designer Newey will assume the role of team principal, in addition to his position as managing technical partner, serving as owner Lawrence Stroll’s key advisor to guide the ambitious Silverstone team.
Newey is succeeding Andy Cowell, who will transition to the role of chief strategy officer, responsible for overseeing the integration of the team and its Honda, Aramco, and Valvoline collaborators concerning the power unit aspects.
Verstappen, who collaborated with Newey at Red Bull until Newey’s departure earlier in the year, was inevitably questioned about the alteration and endorsed his former Red Bull colleague to excel in his fresh capacity.
“It’s likely a trend you’re observing across more teams, isn’t it? The appointment of a technically focused individual to the position of team principal. And I anticipate Aston is adopting a similar approach. Though, you’d need to inquire with them directly regarding their motivations. However, that’s my rationale for it.
“I’m pleased by this development. I’m uncertain of the degree of transformation in Adrian’s involvement with the vehicle. Nevertheless, I’m confident in his future accomplishments.”
Photo by: Aston Martin
When questioned whether he felt astonishment at Newey’s transition to a team leadership role for the first time throughout his extensive career, assuming even greater duties beyond his typical function as a chief designer, the Dutchman responded: “I’ve never engaged in conversations with Adrian concerning this matter. It was never a feasible prospect at Red Bull, which is why I remain uncertain regarding his aspirations or inclinations—nonetheless, I extend my well wishes.
“He presently operates within a distinct team dynamic, and I’m unable to analyze the internal operations of the team, the underlying rationale, or the impetus for his promotion. Instead, I’ll simply observe and appreciate the situation.
“I am pleased for him, and I anticipate that the team will ultimately gain advantages from his expertise.”
“The unrestricted pursuit of enhancements”
Aston Martin’s seasoned competitor, Fernando Alonso, conveyed his enthusiasm regarding Newey’s dedication to “the unrestricted pursuit of enhancements and flawlessness” in this role.
“In my view, Adrian operates under a single paradigm, which revolves around maximizing output,” noted Alonso, when probed about his anticipations for Newey’s leadership approach.
“There exists no alternative description. His sole focus resides in the incessant quest for peak performance and perfection. He is a formidable rival and an exemplary leader.
Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing, Adrian Newey, Managing Technical Partner of Aston Martin F1 Team
Photo by: Zak Mauger / Motorsport Images via Getty Images
“So, I believe that the entire group, even though we’re already dedicated to elevating performance, will intensify our endeavors under Adrian’s guidance.
“A multitude of individuals among our workforce are relatively inexperienced in this domain, characterized by youthful vitality and a need for mentorship from Adrian or other eminent figures – underscoring the importance of instilling in them the principles for achieving triumph in Formula 1.
“We possess the collective wisdom of the two unparalleled individuals in the history of the sport: Andy Cowell and Adrian Newey.”
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– The Autosport.com Team
