Aston Martin's AMR26B 'B-spec' promises major step forward in Hungary and Zandvoort

Aston Martin is set to introduce a heavily revised version of its struggling AMR26 at the Hungarian Grand Prix, with a second upgrade package following at Zandvoort. The team hopes the changes will pull it out of a deep performance slump and allow drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll to fight for points regularly.

The Updated AMR26B

Adrian Newey, the team's chief technical officer, has confirmed the 'AMR26B' will debut in Hungary with significant changes. “The main structural elements remain the same… but we have reduced the weight of both [the chassis and gearbox], which required a new homologation and front crash tests,” Newey explained Source: elespanol. A new front structure and rear suspension are also part of the update, alongside a revised aerodynamic package. Stroll noted that the aero upgrade arrives in Hungary and a new power unit element in Zandvoort Source: infobae.

Team's Perspective

Newey described the decision to freeze development of the original AMR26 as “painful” but necessary: “While others have improved their performance, we have essentially stagnated in relative terms, so every weekend is increasingly painful” Source: elconfidencial. The team is clear that the upgrades should provide “a good step forward” — Stroll said the simulator shows the car is “supposed to be much faster,” though he cautioned that “it's always difficult to know how much faster until it hits the track” Source: infobae.

Newey also hinted at Alonso's future: if the AMR26B shows progress, the team expects the Spaniard to remain Source: elconfidencial. The package represents Aston Martin's final push for 2026, with an eye on 2027.