Fernando Alonso completes the first day of testing with the Aston Martin AMR26
The Spanish driver Fernando Alonso has finished the Barcelona Shakedown week at the Circuit de Barcelona‑Catalunya. During this session, he took the controls of the new Aston Martin AMR26, a single-seater bearing the hallmark of designer Adrian Newey. Alonso managed to complete more than 60 laps, thus beginning the collection of on-track information with the vehicle. This activity follows the first limited contact that his teammate Lance Stroll had. 🏁
The team processes key information in Montmeló
The day on the Catalan track has served for Aston Martin Aramco to process a large volume of data. Alonso tested various components and configurations of the AMR26, a car that generates high expectation. The engineers evaluated how the chassis behaves and verified the reliability of the power unit under real conditions. This shakedown represents a fundamental step before the official preseason tests begin.
Key activities of the day:- The Spanish driver completed more than 60 laps to collect initial data.
- Various adjustments and components of the new AMR26 single-seater were tested.
- The engineers analyzed the chassis and mechanical reliability on track.
This shakedown is a key step before the official preseason tests begin.
Adrian Newey's technical philosophy under scrutiny
The incorporation of Adrian Newey into the project marks a turning point. The prestigious British designer, newly arrived at the Silverstone team, personally oversees how the single-seater evolves. His technical approach seeks to optimize every detail of aerodynamic performance. The team trusts that his perspective will allow them to fight for the top positions on the grid in the next season of the world championship. 🛠️
Elements of the Newey approach:- Direct supervision of the car's evolution and setup.
- Philosophy focused on optimizing aerodynamics to the highest level.
- Clear objective to compete at the front of the grid.
Expectations and speculations after the first kilometers
While Alonso continues to add valuable kilometers to the AMR26, the first speculations arise among the fans. The main question is whether the single-seater will be as fast as its design suggests or if, on the contrary, it will hide its true potential, especially on the straight sections of the circuits. The uncertainty about the real performance will be cleared up in the upcoming tests. 🔍