F1 News: Honda chief furious over Aston Martin fiasco as daily Adrian Newey meetings revealed

Aston Martin

Honda chief furious over Aston Martin fiasco as daily Adrian Newey meetings revealed

Aston Martin and Honda's new partnership has got off to an awful start

By Remy Ramjiawan.

Tuesday 10 March 2026 20:28

Honda boss Koji Watanabe is frustrated with the current state at both Aston Martin and Honda.

In recent weeks, critics have focused on the Japanese power unit for allegedly not delivering enough performance. However, Watanabe insists that the real priority now is uniting the team.

Aston Martin was forced to use the Australian race weekend as a test session. Team principal Adrian Newey even revealed that a November visit to the Japanese engine manufacturer left them surprised—especially after nearly 70 per cent of the crew from the Red Bull Racing glory days had already moved on.

Article continues under video

Meanwhile, much of the team's effort seems dedicated to keeping the AMR26 error-free, even as the power unit remains the headline.

F1 HEADLINES: Mercedes could 'block' Horner return, Verstappen rages

Aston Martin's miserable Australian Grand Prix

Fernando Alonso was among those who voiced his criticism. During the Australian race weekend, he was called in early to conserve parts and eventually sent back out, only to retire shortly after. In contrast, Lance Stroll managed to finish, albeit 15 laps down.