Adrian Newey has officially joined forces with Aston Martin as their managing technical partner. The team at Silverstone is optimistic that Newey, celebrated as the most successful designer in F1 history, will guide them towards becoming a world championship-contending force. Over his illustrious career, Newey has amassed 14 drivers’ titles across seven different racers. This impressive record stretches from his first triumph with Nigel Mansell in 1992 to his latest, as of now, with Max Verstappen in 2024. Interestingly, Newey had already announced his departure by the time Verstappen sealed his win in Las Vegas.
In other F1 news, Stefano Domenicali, the president and CEO of Formula 1, has committed to a new long-term contract, ensuring his leadership continues for the foreseeable future.
Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert has spotlighted a significant aspect of Ferrari’s SF-25 that could pave the way for Lewis Hamilton to capture an eighth drivers’ title this year. Hamilton has adapted swiftly to life at Ferrari, displaying impressive form during pre-season testing in Bahrain by clocking in 162 laps.
There’s buzz surrounding Oscar Piastri’s contract with McLaren, as reports suggest his new deal could net him up to £20 million annually, placing him on par with teammate Lando Norris. McLaren confirmed the long-term agreement with Piastri just before the Australian Grand Prix, which takes place in his hometown, Melbourne.
Sky Sports is set to enhance its F1 coverage by adding three-time W Series champion Jamie Chadwick to its lineup of pundits for the 2025 season. Chadwick, who is actively participating in the European Le Mans Series this year, previously appeared at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix and will now be a familiar face on Sky’s F1 broadcasts.
Toto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, has delivered a sobering assessment of his team’s prospects for the opening round of the F1 season. As the new season kicks off this weekend in Australia, Mercedes is bracing for a tough challenge ahead against their competitors.
Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz has expressed his frustration with the limited testing opportunities currently available to drivers and teams in modern F1. The Spanish driver has urged the championship organizers to improve the amount of preparation time permitted before a new season begins.
