Newey acknowledges his health struggles and expresses hope that Alonso remains until 2027.

      Adrian Newey has acknowledged that the issues with Aston Martin's 2026 car are primarily due to decisions he has personally influenced, while confirming that the long-awaited significant upgrade for the team will finally be revealed in Hungary.

      After spending months largely out of view despite his role as Aston Martin's team principal, Newey disclosed that he has been facing health challenges, which is why Mike Krack has taken on a more visible role publicly.

      "It was a tough choice," Newey stated regarding Aston Martin’s decision to wait for a single major upgrade instead of rolling out smaller updates throughout the first half of the season.

      "While other teams have been improving their performance, we’ve essentially remained stagnant in comparison, making each weekend feel increasingly frustrating."

      "However, we believe this is the correct decision—the right investment for our future."

      Newey admitted that Aston Martin’s issues extend beyond just an underperforming car. "We were depending on tools and processes that had been inadequately patched for years," he explained, noting that some of these could be traced back to the early days of the Jordan team.

      He also took responsibility for certain technical decisions regarding the current car. "From an aerodynamic perspective, we took a bold route, which I largely advocated," Newey confessed.

      "I wouldn’t say the approach we’ve chosen is fundamentally flawed, but it has presented unexpected challenges."

      The anticipated B-spec car is now confirmed to debut at the Hungarian GP "on both cars," according to the 67-year-old.

      "It’s a comprehensive aerodynamic package combined with significant weight reduction. Our goal is to get as close as possible to the weight limit."

      Newey also validated reports indicating that illness affected him for much of last year and the current 2026 season.

      "I’m fine now, but it has been a tough period," he shared. "Honestly, I was not at my best last year."

      "I had to manage my health and work more prudently."

      He added that Krack’s heightened profile during race weekends is intentional rather than a shift in internal power dynamics.

      "At the track, in terms of publicly representing the team and engaging with the media, that’s very much Mike’s responsibility."

      "He excels at it. That arrangement allows me to concentrate on areas where I can provide the most value."

      Newey also recognized that Fernando Alonso's future beyond 2026 may depend on the success of the Hungary upgrade.

      "It’s crucial," he said.

      "Fernando is very eager for the upgrade, and if it performs well, we hope he’ll continue in the cockpit for another season."

      "With his experience, his sensitivity to the car, and his ability to guide development, he’s an invaluable asset. But he wants to see clear, tangible improvements."

      "If we can demonstrate that we’re moving decisively in the right direction, he’s fully committed to staying behind the wheel."