Turmoil is engulfing Aston Martin: Andy Cowell is reportedly on the verge of leaving the team by 2026
The start of 2026 has been anything but serene for Aston Martin. According to reports from Planet F1 surfacing just hours ago, Andy Cowell is allegedly close to exiting Aston Martin by the summer of 2026.
This represents a massive blow for Lawrence Stroll’s outfit, as it would mean losing one of the primary architects of this year’s project just as the championship season gets underway.
The Departure and Potential motivations
As of this morning, Aston Martin has issued no denial regarding the news reported by Planet F1. The team is currently gearing up for a 2026 season that, on paper, is intended to be their definitive assault on the world title.
The shockwaves within the British team stem not just from the departure itself, but from the rumored catalysts: Cowell has reportedly reached a total breaking point with the upper management. This friction is said to be rooted in a fundamental incompatibility of ideas with Adrian Newey, the undisputed protagonist behind this season’s single-seater.
Cowell, poached from Mercedes in 2024, was initially slated to succeed Mike Krack as Team Principal before eventually transitioning into the role of Chief Strategy Officer.
Strong “indirect” evidence of the rift emerged from Saudi Arabia during yesterday’s AMR26 launch, where Cowell was conspicuously absent. While awaiting official confirmation, it appears Aston Martin is facing yet another internal earthquake and a high-stakes reshuffle of its leadership.
Photos: Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team
