The Italian GP was a disappointing weekend for Aston Martin, who could only fight for the lower end of points. Efficiency and straight-line speed are still a weakness for the AMR23, which lost its typically impressive balance at the Monza circuit.
Fernando Alonso gave plenty of feedback about the AMR23’s handling on team radio, with the middle sector proving especially challenging. After an encouraging Zandvoort, Dan Fallows and the technical team at Silverstone were reminded of the gaps that must be filled.
For reasons still unresolved at Aston Martin, low-downforce rear wings (essential to be competitive in Italy) disrupt the car’s stability. Looking ahead to 2024, a more well-rounded machine will be the aim.
In any case, Singapore and Japan should be stronger Grand Prix for Lawrence Stroll’s team.
Although there is still some hesitancy about Aston’s performance, the British outfit’s improvements in Spa and Zandvoort suggest they can be competitive in Marina Bay.
Tom McCullough, Aston Martin F1 performance director, revealed new parts will debut in Singapore:
“Yes, [Singapore] will definitively be better. We also have upgrades that will arrive there,” he told as.com.
“We are eager to begin the upcoming sequence of races…
“With the car we have now, because of its design, it responds better to a certain type of rear wing.
“Fortunately, throughout the calendar, there aren’t many high-efficiency circuits.
“Until then, we are working to develop the 2024 car and make it as efficient as possible.”
As explained previously, Mike Krack’s personnel are yet to abandon this year’s package.
Although 2024 is the priority across the field, Aston Martin still has lessons to learn from the AMR23. To have confidence they can avoid the banana skins that presented themselves post-Canada, a strong end to the season will is the objective.
Fernando Alonso continues to search for an elusive F1 victory, and Singapore represents an opportunity on paper. Red Bull has also pinpointed the street circuit as a potentially weaker circuit (relatively, of course) for the RB19.
Still, only the stopwatch will confirm if Aston Martin can regain the speed and consistency that accompanied them in early 2023.
Author: Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
