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Alonso tests 'improved' AMR26; shares initial feedback
On the margins of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso put Aston Martin's updated 2026 car, the AMR26, through its paces and shared his initial feedback.
By Ruben Smit - 2026-07-24T19:03:20.000Z - 2 min read
Aston Martin is working wholeheartedly on developing its car for the 2026 Formula 1 season. Fernando Alonso recently stepped out of the AMR26—the car designed under the forthcoming new regulations—following a test session in which early indications suggested the machine felt 'significantly improved'. His initial findings were shared directly with the team.
The 2026 season marks a significant shift in Formula 1's technical regulations, particularly regarding aerodynamics and the power unit. Teams begin concept development and early testing well ahead of the timeline, as establishing a solid foundation from the outset is crucial for an entirely new generation of cars.
Alonso's involvement in such early tests is invaluable. Armed with years of experience and a refined feel for the car, the two-time world champion can provide essential input at an early stage. This input helps engineers validate concepts and direct future development long before entering the final design phase.
The description 'significantly improved' is a positive signal from within the team. It implies that the steps taken by Aston Martin since earlier test iterations or simulation models are paying off. It shows that early design principles and technical solutions are achieving desired progress, offering a key boost of motivation for the development teams.
The nature of these early tests typically focuses on data gathering and assessing the car's fundamental driveability. The priority is not so much setting fast lap times, but rather correlating simulation data with track reality and identifying any flaws in the car's baseline package.
Aston Martin clearly has its eyes set on the future, investing heavily in preparations for 2026. By involving Alonso so early with the AMR26, they highlight the importance of driver feedback during an era of sweeping regulatory changes where every detail can mean the difference between success and failure.
Although there is still a long way to go before the 2026 season actually gets underway, these early tests and Alonso's positive remarks offer a cautious glimpse into the British team's ambitions. Over the coming months, development will continue unabated with the goal of putting the most competitive car possible on the grid.