Aston Martin

The Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant F1 Team, as we know it today, has only been active in Formula 1 since 2021. However, the roots of the British car brand Aston Martin in the premier class of motorsport go much further back.

The Early Years of Aston Martin in Formula 1

The first Aston Martins made their debut in Formula 1 in 1959. At that time, the British car manufacturer had already had a fairly successful campaign in long-distance racing (including the 24 Hours of Le Mans), but F1 proved to be challenging. After only four races in the debut year and one more Grand Prix in 1960, the team decided to throw in the towel and not return for the time being.

The Failed Return of Aston Martin to Formula 1

In the mid-2000s, Aston Martin, in collaboration with David Richards’ Prodrive F1, was tempted by a new F1 adventure. Richards was a co-owner of the car brand at the time, but the plans eventually fell through. However, Aston Martin did serve as the title sponsor for Red Bull Racing from 2016 to 2020. The plans for their own Formula 1 team were revived when Lawrence Stroll became the new owner of the illustrious car brand in 2020. At that time, Stroll also owned the Racing Point F1 team, formerly known as Force India, Spyker, Midland, and Jordan. In 2021, the temporary name Racing Point was permanently replaced by Aston Martin. The distinctive pink of Racing Point sponsor BWT disappeared, and the famous ‘British racing green’ returned to the grid. Sports car manufacturer Aston Martin thus capitalized on the brand’s typically British character.

Aston Martin’s Ambitions

Initially, not much changed for the racing team. They continued to operate with the same staff and from the same factory in Silverstone. However, significant investments were made in expanding the workforce, a new factory, and even their own wind tunnel. To underline Aston Martin’s ambitious plans, Sebastian Vettel was recruited as a driver alongside Lance Stroll, the son of team owner Lawrence, in 2021. From the 2023 season, the retired Vettel was replaced by Fernando Alonso. Along with the Spanish former world champion, the team hoped to finally make the leap to the top. This indeed happened, and in a spectacular fashion! Alonso shone like never before, adding luster to his comeback. He secured one podium finish after another, but will he also secure a victory in 2023?

Aston Martin Team Details