Horner dismisses 2026 engine 'cheating' claims as Newey teases Aston Martin upgrade

Christian Horner has firmly rejected accusations that Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains are exploiting a regulatory 'loophole' for the 2026 power units, labeling such claims as sensationalist. Meanwhile, Adrian Newey has hinted at significant upcoming changes to the new Aston Martin AMR26 ahead of its competitive debut, as the F1 off-season continues to buzz with technical and personnel moves.

Why it matters:

The debate over the 2026 power unit regulations cuts to the core of Formula 1's competitive integrity and technical arms race. Accusations of rule-bending can create a narrative of unfair advantage before a car even turns a wheel, while major personnel shifts and car development teases set the stage for a highly anticipated new era of regulations.

The details:

• Horner's Defense: The former Red Bull team principal dismissed reports framing Mercedes and RBPT's approach to the 2026 engine rules as "cheating like wildcats." He co-founded Red Bull Powertrains in 2021 and defended manufacturers working within the regulatory framework to find performance.
• Newey's Tease: Adrian Newey confirmed the Aston Martin AMR26, which caused a stir at its Barcelona shakedown, will be "very different" when it arrives for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. This marks his first full car project since leaving Red Bull.
• Williams Sponsor Split: Williams and Spanish bank Santander, a long-time sponsor of driver Carlos Sainz, have ended their partnership ahead of the 2026 season. The bank had followed Sainz from Ferrari to Williams in a multi-year deal announced just over a year ago.
• Ferrari's New Hire: The Scuderia has strengthened its technical team by appointing former Racing Bulls engineer Guillaume Dezoteux as its new head of performance operations. Dezoteux brings 18 years of experience from the Faenza-based team.
• Williams Shakedown: The team has completed a shakedown of its new FW48 at Silverstone, with drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon sharing driving duties. A second filming day is scheduled in Bahrain on February 10th.

What's next:

All eyes now turn to the final pre-season test in Bahrain, beginning February 11th, which will provide the first true competitive benchmark for the 2026 cars. Newey's promised upgrades for the AMR26 will be scrutinized, while the on-track performance will begin to validate or dispel the off-season rumors surrounding the new power units.