Fernando Alonso spoke with Adrian Newey before the 65-year-old joined Aston Martin. Fernando Alonso has disclosed that he “texted” Adrian Newey and visited with the former Red Bull chief technical officer in Monaco before joining Aston Martin.
Newey was revealed as Aston Martin’s new managing technical partner and stakeholder prior to the previous Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
The Silverstone-based team won the contest for Newey’s signature ahead of a number of F1 rivals, including Ferrari.
During the time when Newey was considering his options, two-time Formula One champion Alonso made sure his voice was heard in an attempt to entice the renowned designer to Aston Martin.
When asked about his involvement in Newey joining the club, Alonso informed select media, adding
RacingNews365: “That’s a question for him [Newey].” I almost certainly texted him, as did everyone else who wanted to work with him.I also saw him at the Monaco Historic Grand Prix [in May], where he was racing that week, and we spent half an hour talking. I’m not sure. We all tried to persuade him.
“Ultimately, I think Lawrence [Stroll], his vision, the new factory and what Aston Martin wants for the future, together with Honda, were probably key factors.”
Aston Martin ‘team of the future’
The addition of Newey is the latest substantial investment by team owner Stroll, who has signed numerous other senior figures in the last two years.
With a cutting-edge plant and a new wind tunnel set to open later this year, Aston Martin’s infrastructure will be the most advanced in Formula One.
With the signing of Newey, Alonso sees Aston Martin’s future quite positively.
“He’s [Newey] a great addition to the team,” Alonso said. “And I believe that the Aston Martin team is the team of the future.
“We are opening new buildings at the factory and campus, and the wind tunnel will open in January.
“Aramco and Honda are the best.” partners in the world, most likely, and Adrian as well. I believe the team is taking shape and Lawrence’s concept is taking shape.”
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