Fernando Alonso has registered a notable ‘feasible victory’ in 2026, a result that underscores the challenging season Aston Martin is currently navigating. The team has faced significant performance and reliability issues throughout the ongoing Formula 1 campaign.
Aston Martin’s 2026 season began with difficulties, including a late arrival to pre-season testing. The team completed the fewest laps during testing, accumulating only 2115 kilometres, less than half of newcomer Cadillac’s total.
The AMR26 car has been plagued by technical problems, primarily severe vibrations from the Honda RA626H power unit. These vibrations have reportedly damaged the battery system, limiting the car’s running and overall pace.
Adrian Newey, serving as Managing Technical Partner and Team Principal, has acknowledged the car’s weaknesses. He confirmed that the power unit’s instability prevented drivers from completing extended runs without risk.
As of early July 2026, Aston Martin occupies the bottom position in the Constructors’ Championship, having secured only one point this season. This solitary point was earned by Alonso at the Monaco Grand Prix.
Alonso’s other race finishes have been outside the points, including an 18th place in Japan and unclassified results in Australia and China. The team has yet to get a car into Q2 in qualifying.
The ‘feasible victory’ referenced in recent reports pertains to a non-F1 event, specifically a ‘Lego race’ win. This highlights the team’s current struggles on the actual Formula 1 grid.
Newey is leading efforts to introduce a revised AMR26, with significant aerodynamic updates and weight reduction. This upgraded car is anticipated to debut at the Hungarian Grand Prix later this month.
Alonso recently voiced concerns regarding the 2026 F1 regulations, particularly the reliance on battery power for overtaking. He stated that such passes require ‘no driver talent’ and are merely a matter of pressing a button.
The Honda power unit is also undergoing development, with upgrades expected later in the season. The team aims to improve its competitiveness and begin fighting for points consistently.
Alonso’s contract with Aston Martin extends until at least the end of the 2026 season. He recently indicated that the 2026 Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix might be his final race at that circuit in F1.
