Aston Martin Design Department Undergoes Restructure Following Newey’s Feedback

Aston Martin has made a series of changes within its Formula 1 design department, with several staff members being removed from their current roles as part of a wider technical restructure ahead of the 2026 season.

The shake-up is understood to have been prompted by feedback from Adrian Newey, the legendary F1 designer who joined the team in March 2025 after his high-profile departure from Red Bull. Newey serves as Managing Technical Director, overseeing Aston Martin’s design operations alongside Enrico Cardile, who became Chief Technical Officer earlier this year following a lengthy exit process from Ferrari.

Newey and Cardile Drive Organisational Changes

According to reports, both Newey and Cardile have been assessing the team’s technical structure and processes since arriving, with their feedback combined with cost cap considerations driving the latest round of adjustments.

Among those affected is Eric Blandin, Aston Martin’s Aerodynamics Director, who joined from Mercedes in 2022. Blandin is reportedly one of at least seven members of the design department who have been removed from their current positions.

While the changes appear significant, it is understood that none of the affected staff have left the Aston Martin group entirely. Discussions are ongoing about potential redeployments within the company’s wider automotive and engineering divisions.

Team Statement and Context

When approached for comment, an Aston Martin spokesperson stated:

“We don’t comment on internal staff matters and we don’t have anything to announce.”

Personnel reshuffles are not unusual at this stage of the year, particularly with teams preparing for the sweeping 2026 technical regulation changes, which will introduce new chassis and power unit frameworks.

Newey’s Influence Already Taking Shape

Since joining Aston Martin, Newey has been conducting a comprehensive review of the team’s design and development processes. He has reportedly identified several areas for improvement in both efficiency and technical capability.

One early point of concern was the team’s simulation and vehicle modelling tools, which Newey felt were below the standard required to compete consistently at the front of the grid. That feedback led to the hiring of Giles Wood, a former Red Bull colleague of Newey’s, as Simulation and Vehicle Modelling Director earlier this year.

With both Newey and Cardile now firmly embedded in leadership roles, Aston Martin’s technical overhaul appears to be gaining momentum a clear sign that the team is serious about transforming its operations ahead of Formula 1’s next era in 2026.

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