Newey Spotted Examining Leclerc's Ferrari SF-26 on Mexico Grid

Adrian Newey, Aston Martin's team principal, was spotted examining Charles Leclerc's Ferrari SF-26 on the grid ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix. The sighting came as Aston Martin endured another difficult weekend, with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll both retiring early.

Why it matters:

Newey's grid observations have become a familiar part of F1 race weekends. The celebrated designer, who has contributed to more than 200 race wins and 25 combined titles at Williams, McLaren and Red Bull, is known for closely studying rival cars before races. His attention on Ferrari's SF-26, a car that has won in Barcelona and Britain this season, highlights Aston Martin's search for answers during a troubled campaign.

The details:

• Aston Martin remains 10th in the constructors' standings with seven points from 19 races. Mexico marked its fifth double DNF of 2026.
• Newey has inspected Ferrari's SF-26 multiple times this year, including Lewis Hamilton's car in Australia and Hungary and Leclerc's at the British Grand Prix.
• In Mexico, Leclerc finished fourth after a five-second penalty for leaving the track and gaining a lasting advantage in his opening-lap battle with Hamilton. Hamilton finished second behind Max Verstappen, while Kimi Antonelli took third and secured the 2026 world championship.

What's next:

Aston Martin is already turning attention to 2027, when a completely new car will be introduced under revised regulations. Newey has identified the front floor area, often called the 'bib' or 'tea tray,' as a key development target. With the team's 2026 car having been compromised by a delayed wind tunnel programme, Newey's rival inspections may help inform the rebuild.