After a disappointing 2024 season, Aston Martin team boss Mike Krack draws a clear conclusion: expectations were not met. Despite an impressive start in 2023 and significant investments in the factory and team, the racing stable fell back to the midfield last season. Krack emphasizes that the team has learned important lessons and is fully focused on a comeback in 2025.
A Disappointing Setback
Aston Martin seemed to have the wind in its sails in 2023. With Fernando Alonso at the helm, six podium finishes were achieved in the first eight races. The team ended the season with 280 points and eight podium finishes, a promising result after years of building.
But the hope for further progress in 2024 was not realized. Both drivers failed to achieve a single podium finish and the racing stable ended with just 94 points, a disappointing fifth place in the constructors’ championship. “We started the year with realistic expectations,” Krack told F1TV. “We wanted to close the gap to the top teams, but instead we were overtaken by the midfield.”
Major Changes in the Technical Team
The disappointing results led to a restructuring within Aston Martin’s technical team. Technical Director Dan Fallows stepped down and was replaced by heavyweights such as Adrian Newey, former Ferrari boss Enrico Cardile, and CEO Andy Cowell, who succeeded Martin Whitmarsh. Krack explains: “In a sport like this, it’s all about performance. If that’s lacking, you have to make changes. That’s exactly what we’ve done.” The focus is now on optimizing the technical structure within the team. “We are currently having intensive discussions to ensure that the new leaders get everything they need to be successful.”
Lessons Learned: Looking Ahead to 2025
Despite the turmoil within the team, the driver duo will remain unchanged in 2025. Fernando Alonso, who extended his contract earlier this year, will continue to share the wheel with Lance Stroll. Alonso’s presence provides the team with stability, but it’s clear that Aston Martin needs to make quick progress to keep the Spaniard satisfied.
Krack emphasizes that the setbacks of 2024 were not in vain. “We’ve learned many lessons about what needs to improve. We’re now working full throttle on the car for next year and aim to start with a much more competitive package.”
