Aston Martin have sparked concern after revealing that drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll risk permanent nerve damage if they drive too long during the Australian Grand Prix. Team principal Adrian Newey confirmed a limit of 25 consecutive laps for Alonso and 15 for Stroll due to severe vibrations from the car's power unit.
The vibrations, described by Stroll as like 'electrocuting yourself in a chair,' are causing reliability issues and transmitting into the drivers' hands. Newey admitted the team may be unable to complete the 58-lap race, saying: 'We are going to be heavily restricted by how many laps we can do in the race, due to the vibrations.'
Alonso downplayed the risk, stating that adrenaline can overcome the pain. 'If we were fighting for wins, we can do three hours in the car,' he said. However, he acknowledged the need for a solution, adding: 'We don't know the consequences either, if you keep driving like that for four months.'
The issues stem from Aston Martin's switch to Honda engines this season. Newey insisted the chassis is fifth-best on the grid and the team is targeting Q3 in qualifying, but the vibration problems have raised doubts about their 2026 prospects despite significant investment.
