Newey states that Honda's connection has strengthened following a 'catastrophic' beginning.

      "What has truly advanced is the relationship itself."

      Adrian Newey has joined Honda in acknowledging that their previously strained partnership has seen substantial improvement following a challenging start to 2026. Koji Watanabe, president of Honda Racing Corporation, along with Aston ambassador Pedro de la Rosa, noted that collaboration between the two entities has strengthened as reliability and performance began to enhance.

      "I believe what has truly advanced is specifically the relationship," Newey stated. "After what can only be termed a disastrous start, the positive takeaway—because you always look for positives—is that it has cultivated a very close working relationship between Honda and Aston Martin."

      "We are continuing to develop that in all aspects." Newey is optimistic that the enhanced working relationship will ultimately lead to improved results. "I’m very satisfied with the progress we’re making in terms of our relationship. Typically, as relationships strengthen, performance does as well."

      Aston Martin took a significant leap with its extensively revised car in Hungary, and Honda’s upgraded engine is set to compete at Zandvoort. Additional chassis improvements are slated for Monza and Baku. "The technical evolution regarding the car in Hungary and the subsequent upgrades, as I mentioned, that we will introduce in Zandvoort and then in Baku, yes, I believe they are very important steps," Newey remarked. "It’s evident we’re striving to close the gap. Will that make us the fastest car? Unfortunately, no. But does it signify a significant advancement from where we were? Yes, I think it does."