Mar.3 (GMM) Aston Martin could take the extraordinary step of completing only the formation lap at the Australian Grand Prix before retiring both cars, amid deepening concerns about its new Honda power unit.
Italian reports claim the Silverstone-based team has even discussed not starting the race at all, although contractual obligations and fines would likely prevent a total withdrawal.
Instead, one scenario under consideration is that Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll would take part in the weekend, qualify within the minimum requirement, start Sunday’s race – and then immediately pit after the formation lap or after just a handful of laps.
The drastic idea underlines the severity of the crisis.
Honda Racing Corporation CEO Ikuo Takeishi admitted last week that the problem detected in Bahrain was serious.
“During testing, we detected unusual vibrations,” he said. “I believe the main cause was that these vibrations led to damage to the battery system.
“We stopped the car because we felt it shouldn’t continue driving in that condition. It wasn’t that an accident was imminent, but it was dangerous.”
Honda suspects multiple components within the power unit and chassis are interacting to create the vibration, making a quick fix difficult.
“If it were something like the transmission or the motor alone, it would be simpler,” Takeishi said. “But I suspect several components are interacting. We may have stumbled upon a rather tricky situation.”
The issue is compounded by spare parts shortages following repeated failures in Bahrain, where Aston Martin completed fewer than 400 laps across six test days.
Reports from Italy suggest Honda’s parts production has struggled to keep pace, meaning every kilometre in Melbourne could increase the risk of further damage – especially with the Chinese Grand Prix following just one week later.
Team principal Adrian Newey reportedly addressed staff at Silverstone this week in a sober meeting, warning there was “no reason to celebrate” and that recovery could take “five to six months”.
“I have a plan and I will get you out of here,” he is quoted as telling employees.
Newey and senior engineer Andy Cowell are understood to have travelled to Japan to work directly with Honda in Sakura, where vibration testing is ongoing using a full monocoque rig.
The crisis unfolds against the backdrop of broader Middle East instability, with a refinery operated by Aramco – a major Aston Martin sponsor and global fuel partner – briefly catching fire amid regional tensions, although Saudi authorities say operations have resumed.
For now, Aston Martin insists it will line up in Melbourne.
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
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES