Formula 1Technology

Aston Martin completes much hyped shakedown of AMR26

Motorsport Technology
9 months ago
3 min read

The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team concluded its highly anticipated shakedown of the all new AMR26 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya with Fernando Alonso behind the wheel.

It was highly anticipated because, with sweeping changes to the technical regulations for 2026, all eyes were on the Adrian Newey designed machine to spot any major interpretations from the genius of F1 car design.

Media publications and websites were quick to pounce, Motorsport Tech’s own columnist Craig Scarborough pointing out some differences from those cars running on the previous two days.

From the horse’s mouth, the team expressed itself happy with 61 laps of running in conducting reliability checks and aerodynamic chassis evaluations.

“Getting a new car on track for the first time is always an important step. Bringing the AMR26 to life here in Barcelona has taken a big effort, both back at the AMR Technology Campus and from the team working trackside,” commented Mike Krack, Chief Trackside Officer.

“Having both drivers in the car and providing valuable feedback and data is an important part of our pre-season preparations.

“It’s also been helpful as we continue building our working relationships with new works partners, including Honda.”

For double world champion Fernando Alonso, it is a little premature to be speculating on race victories and a coveted third world title despite all the obvious hype. But the Spaniard also confessed himself happy with his first outing behind the wheel since Abu Dhabi.

“It’s always a special moment driving a new car for the first time, especially at the start of a new regulation cycle,” added Alonso. “Over the years I’ve experienced many changes in Formula One, and you quickly get a sense of the direction the car is taking.

“We completed a solid programme with strong mileage, which is the main priority at this stage. It’s still very early days and we have a lot of work still to do before we head to Melbourne in March.”



Motorsport Technology

View all posts

You may also like