Stroll Rules Out Horner Move to Aston Martin as Newey Takes 2026 Lead

Lawrence Stroll has ruled out Christian Horner joining Aston Martin, addressing factory staff this week.

In a direct briefing, the owner said the option of hiring Horner is not happening, and he confirmed the new leadership plan would stay in place. The arrangement includes Adrian Newey becoming team principal from early 2026, while he continues as the team's chief technical director.

Current team principal and CEO Andy Cowell will move to a role focused on strengthening the relationship with the engine supplier Honda and the fuel partner Aramco. Horner, who was dismissed by Red Bull in July after two decades at the helm, had explored a return to Formula One with Aston Martin, but talks did not progress.

An Aston Martin spokesperson denied a rumor that Horner had been given a secret factory tour by Newey. Stroll did not deny that discussions with Horner occurred, but he made clear Horner’s involvement is not on the table.

Horner’s return would require alignment with Newey, who left Red Bull last year amid reported tensions over leadership and credit in the design department. Horner has indicated he would want a role that includes equity and full control of a team.

Newey is regarded as one of the sport’s most influential designers, having helped win championships with Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull.

In a separate interview, Newey explained his focus for 2026 centers on the power unit project and said he volunteered to take a leading role early in the season to coordinate the Honda-Aramco-Aston Martin collaboration.

As the team reorganizes, officials emphasize stability and long-term planning to stay competitive with the top rivals.

Expert comment: An F1 analyst notes the restructure aims to build stability around Newey’s design leadership for 2026. A second observer adds that any Horner comeback would hinge on ownership terms and governance.

Short summary: Aston Martin has made clear that Horner will not join soon. The team will push ahead with a leadership lineup led by Adrian Newey from 2026 and stronger ties with Honda and Aramco. Horner’s return remains possible only if a major equity stake and full control are granted, while Cowell shifts focus to engine relationships.

Key insight: Aston Martin pursues leadership continuity with Adrian Newey for 2026, and any Horner return would require substantial ownership and governance terms. BBC