Mar.5 (GMM) Adrian Newey has warned Aston Martin’s troubled 2026 car could physically harm its drivers if the team pushes too hard at the Australian GP.
Arriving in Melbourne with Honda (HRC) president Koji Watanabe, Newey confirmed that the vibrations already known to have damaged the power unit’s battery in testing are also creating a potential safety issue for drivers.
“Fernando feels he can’t do more than 25 consecutive laps without risking damage to his hands,” Newey said, referring to Fernando Alonso.
“Lance thinks he can’t do more than 15 laps.
“So we have to be honest. We’re going to be very restricted in terms of the number of laps until we can identify the causes of the vibrations and fix them at their source.”
The revelation adds to concerns raised by Honda last week that abnormal vibrations from the new power unit were damaging the hybrid battery – a situation Honda engineers described as “dangerous”.
Watanabe said measures implemented at the Sakura factory may reduce the problem but could not yet eliminate it completely.
“During the Bahrain tests we experienced unexpected vibrations that damaged the batteries,” he said.
“We were unable to complete the planned mileage. Engineers from HRC and Aston Martin are working together to find solutions.
“We believe we have implemented measures for this weekend, but their effectiveness is not guaranteed until we see them under real track conditions.”
According to Honda, the latest modifications significantly reduced vibration levels on the dyno, but the true test will come during running at Albert Park.
Despite the crisis, Newey insisted the fundamental design of the Aston Martin remains promising.
“I look at our package and I don’t think we’ve missed anything,” he said. “I think the car has enormous development potential.
“We have an aggressive development plan and I believe we can get to the front at some point this season.”
However, he admitted Aston Martin will start the year well behind the leaders.
“Here in Melbourne we’ll be somewhat behind,” Newey said. “I’d say we’re the fifth car. The chassis probably has Q3 potential.
“How far behind the front? I don’t know – maybe seven tenths, maybe a second.”
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES