Aston Martin stands firm with Adrian Newey, dismisses speculations on rumoured exit

Aston Martin insist Adrian Newey remains team principal amid reports the acclaimed designer is set to be replaced by Audi's Jonathan Wheatley at the struggling Silverstone outfit.

In Short

• Aston Martin confirms Adrian Newey remains team principal
• Audi declines comment on leadership speculation
• Team yet to score points in current Formula One season

Aston Martin moved to quash speculation on Thursday that Adrian Newey was set to be replaced as team principal, insisting the acclaimed designer remained in charge as reports linked Audi's Jonathan Wheatley to a senior role at the Silverstone outfit.

Motorsport.com reported that Newey would step aside from his leadership duties to focus on technical matters, with Wheatley, currently at Audi's factory in Switzerland, returning to Britain to take over. Aston Martin were quick to push back.

"The team will not be engaging in media speculation about its senior leadership team," the team said in a statement. "Adrian Newey continues to lead the team as Team Principal and Managing Technical Partner."
Audi acknowledged the reports but offered little clarity. "There is no official update from our side at this point in time and we do not comment on speculation," a team spokesman said.

A Team Under Pressure

The speculation comes at a difficult time for Aston Martin, who are yet to score a point in the opening two races of the season. Their new Honda power unit has been a significant source of concern, lacking performance and producing heavy vibrations that have left drivers struggling behind the wheel.

Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso retired from last Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix after losing feeling in his hands and feet, with on-board footage showing the Spaniard taking his hands off the steering wheel whenever possible to ease the discomfort.

Newey's Rocky Start

Newey, 67, joined Aston Martin from Red Bull last year as a shareholder and took over as team principal this season, replacing Andy Cowell, who moved into a strategy role. His cars have won 14 drivers' and 12 constructors' titles across three different teams, making him one of the most decorated figures in the sport's history.

Wheatley, who worked alongside Newey at Red Bull as sporting director before joining Audi's predecessor Sauber in April last year, would face a lengthy gardening leave period before he could take up any new role at a rival team.

The Canadian-owned outfit, whose lineup pairs Alonso with owner Lawrence Stroll's son Lance, finished seventh last season with Mercedes engines. The next race at Suzuka on March 29 is a home event for Honda but is unlikely to offer any immediate respite for the struggling manufacturer.

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