When an F1 team calls a press conference and finds the room packed with journalists, it’s typically for a major announcement about leadership changes, a new car, or a driver signing. Rarely does a designer's move cause such a stir. But there he was. F1’s most celebrated designer, Adrian Newey, being warmly welcomed by Aston Martin’s top brass. The occasion? His much-anticipated arrival, reportedly for a staggering $30 million deal and a prominent seat at the top.
Newey, known for his genius in crafting championship-winning machines, brings with him a wealth of experience and a legacy of innovation. His arrival at Aston Martin is seen as a pivotal moment for the team, aiming to rise to the upper echelons of the F1 grid.
But what makes him such a coveted figure in Formula 1? Newey is considered one of the most brilliant engineers and designers in Formula 1 history, with his cars securing an impressive twelve World Constructors' Championships and thirteen World Drivers' Championships, beginning with Nigel Mansell's Williams in 1992 and continuing through Max Verstappen's Red Bull in 2023. This legacy could grow even further if Verstappen or Red Bull claim more titles in the 2024 championships.
From revolutionary aerodynamics to his uncompromising approach to engineering, Newey has redefined what it means to design a fast and reliable F1 car. As we anticipate his influence on Aston Martin’s future success, let’s take a look back at five of his most iconic car designs that have left a mark on the sport.
Williams FW14B (1992)
Wins: 10/16
Nigel Mansell: 9
Riccardo Patrese: 1
Drivers’ and Constructors’ champions
A car so superior that everything that made it a beast was banned from the subsequent season, the Williams FW14B is arguably one of the most advanced F1 cars ever created. Under Newey’s meticulous eye, the car featured active suspension, traction control, and semi-automatic transmission – all cutting-edge innovations at the time. The FW14B dominated the 1992 season, delivering 10 victories and securing both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships. It was behind the wheel of this masterpiece that Nigel Mansell won his only F1 title, cementing Newey’s reputation as a technical visionary.
Williams FW18 (1996)
Wins: 12/16
Damon Hill: 8
Jacques Villeneuve: 4
Drivers’ and Constructors’ champions
The Williams FW18 holds a special place in Newey’s career. Known for its near-flawless aerodynamic design, this car gave Damon Hill his World Championship in 1996 and helped Williams secure the Constructors’ title. It was a masterpiece in balance and consistency, excelling on both high-speed and technical circuits. Newey’s innovations in chassis and aerodynamics made the FW18 a dominant force and it remains one of the most celebrated cars in Williams’ history.
McLaren MP4/13 (1998)
Wins: 9/16
Mika Hakkinen: 8
David Coulthard: 1
Drivers’ and Constructors’ champions
After joining McLaren in 1997, Newey quickly made his presence felt with the MP4/13, a car that would win Mika Häkkinen the first of his two World Championships. The MP4/13 was an embodiment of Newey’s aerodynamic expertise, with a sleek design that maximized downforce without compromising speed. The car’s innovative suspension system allowed it to maintain superior grip, particularly through corners, making it nearly unbeatable during the 1998 season.
Red Bull RB9 (2013)
Wins: 13/19
Sebastian Vettel: 13
Mark Webber: 0
Drivers’ and Constructors’ champions
The Red Bull RB9, a culmination of all the knowledge Newey had acquired over the years, was the car that powered Sebastian Vettel to his fourth consecutive World Championship. The RB9 excelled in every aspect: speed, aerodynamics and reliability. Its stunning performance, especially in the latter half of the season, saw Vettel win nine races in a row, a record broken only by Verstappen in another Newey behemoth.
Red Bull RB19 (2023)
Wins: 21/22
Max Verstappen: 19
Sergio Perez: 2
Drivers’ and Constructors’ champions
Newey had already solidified his status as the greatest F1 designer with the RB18, which dominated the field and secured Max Verstappen's second drivers' title in 2022. But true to form, Newey pushed the boundaries again with the RB19. Despite one of the most restrictive rule sets in F1 history—designed to prevent any team from gaining a significant edge—Newey's creation defied expectations. Nearly unbeaten and definitely unmatched, the RB19 became the most successful car in F1 history, with both Red Bull and Verstappen breaking several records in 2023.
What Newey brings to Aston Martin
Aston Martin’s decision to bring Newey on board signals their serious intent to become a competitive force in Formula 1. With Newey’s unmatched ability to innovate and adapt to new regulations, the team stands to benefit immensely from his presence. His $30-million signing is a bold statement.
As the team gears up for future seasons, fans and experts alike are eager to see how Newey’s design philosophy will shape Aston Martin’s trajectory when he starts with the team in March 2025. Will his magic touch help them secure their first Constructors’ Championship? Only time will tell. One thing looks certain. With Newey in the fold, Aston Martin’s future looks brighter than ever.