Two key personalities at Aston Martin are suggesting that further "big name signings" may be forthcoming.
Despite a surprising and commendable performance last season, particularly by Fernando Alonso, the fast-expanding Formula 1 team is now grappling with a less competitive car for 2024.
Team ambassador and former F1 competitor, Pedro de la Rosa, discussed with DAZN at Silverstone the challenges in diagnosing the car's problems.
"A well-explained problem is half the solution," he stated during the Spanish broadcast.
"The team is now focused in the wind tunnel working on a very precise area because that is really what has to help us," de la Rosa continued. "We know what the problem is, we know what the diagnosis is, and that is very important in a Formula 1 team so that everyone is focused on working in that area. We need time to solve it and there is no easy solution," he added.
"But if you know what the problem is, you are on the right track."
Although Alonso anticipates a significant car upgrade in Hungary, de la Rosa cautions that this alone will not be an instant fix.
"Obviously these cars don't get faster just by cleaning them up. You have to bring in new things. So we are working day and night in the factory to make small improvements that should gradually help us, starting in Hungary."
De la Rosa shared positive developments about the team's infrastructure, particularly a new wind tunnel and an advanced simulator that "is also coming."
"We have three buildings in the factory," he noted. "The first is fully finished, the second is in progress and building three is the wind tunnel which will be ready by 2025, and it's true that we need it. But we have a spectacular team of people. We have to give them the tools and that's what we're working on."
Recent additions like former Mercedes engine head Andy Cowell as the new CEO, and the anticipated arrival of Ferrari's technical director Enrico Cardile, have bolstered the team. Moreover, there are strong indications that Adrian Newey, currently exiting Red Bull, may join Aston Martin with a lucrative salary and an appealing role as a technical 'super consultant'.
"We'll see whether we make more signings or not," de la Rosa commented to DAZN. "But with the people we have, we already have a spectacular staff."
When queried about the team's ongoing allure despite a downturn in performance this year, Alonso responded at Silverstone: "The team is still attractive to big names who are being associated with Aston Martin. We must continue to trust the team and we believe that we have what we need to be successful in the future, but as drivers or racing teams, the future is tomorrow. We do not have much patience," he added with a smile.
"But every time I pass the factory, there is always something new - a new building or an improvement."
