Hughes: Newey needs someone who won't interfere in his affairs.

      Regardless of the truth in the rumors about Jonathan Whitley's possible move to Aston Martin, there is considerable interest in this topic, and the racing press is discussing it very actively. The Race, a highly authoritative publication that collaborates with well-known experts like Mark Hughes and Gary Anderson, a former racing car designer, has also weighed in with their comments.

      Mark Hughes: "Adrian Newey became team principal by default when Andy Cowell threw up his hands and said, 'I'm leaving!' in response to Newey's actions, which he disagreed with. Clearly, Adrian did not expect Andy to act this way, and he had to take everything on himself.

      But this role entails numerous responsibilities that only distract Newey from fulfilling his primary mission, so it was immediately clear that he would relinquish this position as soon as a suitable candidate was found.

      It would make sense for Mike Crack to take it, as he was team principal before Cowell took over. But Crack continues to work with the team (as racing director) and probably does not want to return.

      It is logical to assume that Newey needs a team principal who will not interfere in his affairs and will not try to control him. However, this must be a very competent specialist who would formally be higher in position, but this difference in authority should not be too great. Meanwhile, Adrian would be responsible for all those aspects of Aston Martin F1's work that interest him.

      Cowell was not prepared for such an approach. Whitley could take on this role – as could many other specialists. And overall, this is not such a big story as it is presented. It is simply one of the consequences of Cowell's resignation."

      Gary Anderson: "At one time, I said that appointing Adrian Newey as team principal was a mistake, as he was going to combine this job with many other responsibilities. I still hold the view that effectively combining these two positions is impossible.

      The problems with Honda and Aston Martin at the early stage of the season only exacerbate the situation, and what Newey said about the Japanese manufacturers in Melbourne was not well received. The Japanese, with whom I worked at one time, reacted poorly to public criticism.

      As for a candidate who could replace Newey, Adrian worked quite successfully with Jonathan Whitley. However, he only started collaborating with Audi a year ago, and it can be assumed that either he is not getting along with Audi's management or with Mattia Binotto.

      In any case, if Whitley is indeed willing to accept this offer, it will be months before he can take office. From my point of view, it is important to find someone who will perform the duties of team principal during the transition period, so Aston Martin needs someone who can take on the job without delay.

      Therefore, we need to look for someone who is available right now. Even if this is not the best candidate for the long term, it is important to fill the vacuum at this moment.

      Moreover, it does not seem that someone like Lawrence Stroll is easy to work with, so the position of team principal should be held by someone who is undoubtedly authoritative and has a strong character. And if his choice has indeed fallen on Jonathan Whitley, then he will have to dig deep into his pockets once again."