Aug.6 (GMM) Adrian Newey has joined Honda in declaring that their strained relationship has improved significantly after a disastrous start to 2026.
Honda Racing Corporation president Koji Watanabe and Aston ambassador Pedro de la Rosa recently said cooperation between the two organisations had become much stronger as reliability and performance also began to improve.
“I think what has really progressed is precisely the relationship,” Newey told Marca.
“After what can only be described as a disastrous start, the positive aspect – because you always look for positives – is that it has fostered a very close working relationship between Honda and Aston Martin.”
“We continue to develop that in all areas.”
Newey believes the improved working relationship should eventually translate into better results.
“I’m very pleased with the progress we’re making from a relationship standpoint.”
“Typically, if relationships improve, performance improves as well.”
Aston Martin made a major step with its heavily revised car in Hungary, while Honda’s upgraded engine is due to race at Zandvoort.
Further chassis developments are planned for Monza and Baku.
“The technical evolution, with regard to the car in Hungary and then the upgrades, as I mentioned, that we will bring to Zandvoort and then to Baku, yes, I think they have been very important steps,” Newey said.
“It’s clear we’re trying to make up ground. Will that make us the fastest car? Unfortunately, no.”
“But does it represent a good step forward from where we were? Yes, I think so.”
Meanwhile, Business Book GP journalist Marc Limacher claims Fernando Alonso is seeking 40 million euros per season to remain with Aston Martin in 2027 and 2028.
“He is currently paid 30 million by the English team,” he said.
The reported demand comes amid continuing speculation about a possible return to Alpine.
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