Aston Martin’s performance at the Hungaroring showed a striking discrepancy: the team can corner harder than Alpine yet struggles on the straights, Franco Colapinto announced after the race.
Aston’s Cornering Edge
Colapinto highlighted that, while the Independently‑designed AMR26 remains slow on the high‑speed sections, its improved chassis and aerodynamics make it “a lot quicker…in the corners.” The Argentine’s comment came as the team chased the class leaders for most of the 70‑lap event, and points ended head‑to‑head with the green cars.
Power Unit Perils
Formula One’s new machinery, underpinned by a 53/47 combustion‑to‑electric split, has spotlighted Aston Martin’s struggles. The Honda‑based power unit, flagged as underpowered and unreliable, has plagued the team since the season’s start, hampering straight‑line speed across the grid. The package will receive a significant upgrade at Zandvoort, which could reverse the top‑speed deficit.
Monaco and the 2026 Switch
Midseason, Monaco served as a wake‑up call. The AMR26 qualified 21st and 22nd, yet managed a solitary point in a rain‑shaken race, underscoring the gap between the finishers and rivals. That 2026 season’s machinery changes, emphasising energy management, proved brutal for Aston’s Honda engine programmers, a challenge that has persisted through the Hungaroring weekend.
Team’s Upgrade Strategy
Only a comprehensive upgrade package at Hungary pushed the team into Q2 for the first time in the season, with Fernando Alonso reaching that stage for his first 2026 non‑sprint session. Alonso finished 14th and teammate Lance Stroll 13th, a ten‑second difference behind Alpine’s Pierre Gasly. Colapinto noted that the new upgrades “give us a big step,” and he anticipates a “big step” from Zandvoort’s further improvements.
Acknowledging the Challenges
Despite the gains, Colapinto expressed dissatisfaction after securing 15th from 13th on the grid. He described the afternoon as “tricky,” citing a sudden loss of pace early in the race that “never really recovered.” The Argentine suggested possible damage or a balance issue that need to be investigated, stressing that the car’s grip “was very, very poor.”
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