Aston Martin F1 technical director Dan Fallows will be stepping down from his role with immediate effect, the team confirmed on Tuesday.
This decision, while surprising to many, comes at a time when the team is undergoing considerable changes as it strives to boost its competitiveness in the F1 landscape.
The team stated that although Dan Fallows would no longer serve as Aston Martin F1 technical director, he would remain within the Aston Martin group. This transition marks a pivotal moment for both the British engineer and the team, as they navigate a challenging period following a promising start to the 2023 season.
During his tenure, the 51-year old played a crucial role in guiding the Silverstone outfit’s technical team, contributing to the development of the AMR23 car that secured eight podium finishes last season, largely thanks to the efforts of lead driver Fernando Alonso.
“The Aston Martin F1 Team and Technical Director Dan Fallows have today jointly announced that from November, Dan will no longer serve as Technical Director of the Formula One Team. Dan will remain with the Group,” a statement by the team read.
The announcement of Fallows stepping down comes amidst broader changes within Aston Martin’s leadership structure. The team’s billionaire owner, Lawrence Stroll, has ambitious plans to transform his squad into a championship-contending force in Formula 1.
To this end, the team has been bolstering its technical department. Notably, legendary designer Adrian Newey is set to join Aston Martin as managing technical partner in March 2025.
Newey’s arrival is highly anticipated given his illustrious career, which includes numerous championships with Red Bull Racing and other teams.
In a statement reflecting on his time as Aston Martin F1 technical director Dan Fallows expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the technical team.
“In my time at Aston Martin, it has been a joy and a privilege to guide the technical team on their journey towards being race and championship winners,” said Fallows. “ It is time for me to pass on the baton, but I look forward to watching the team’s future success, which I am sure will come soon.”
The decision for Fallows to step aside appears to be part of a strategic realignment under newly appointed managing director Andy Cowell.
“I would like to thank Dan Fallows for his contribution to Aston Martin in the last two years,” Cowell said. “Dan led the team to the success of the AMR23 which secured eight podiums last season.”
Cowell, who previously led Mercedes’ F1 engine program before joining Aston Martin in October 2024, is expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping the team’s technical direction.
This leadership change comes after a disappointing performance in the ongoing 2024 season, where Aston Martin currently sits fifth in the constructors’ championship standings with only 86 points.
Their performance has notably declined amid an impressive start to the previous season as Alonso secured six podiums in just eight races; however, this year’s results have not mirrored that success. The team’s struggles have raised questions about their development strategies and overall competitiveness in an increasingly challenging F1 environment.
With Fallows’ exit and Newey’s impending arrival, there is speculation regarding who will assume the role of Aston Martin F1 technical director moving forward.
Bob Bell, who joined as an executive director earlier this year and is known for his engineering expertise, is expected to temporarily take over Fallows’ role until a permanent replacement is appointed.
The broader context of Fallows’ departure highlights the team’s urgent need to recalibrate its approach as it aims for greater success on the track. Lawrence Stroll’s vision includes not only competitive cars but also a robust infrastructure capable of sustaining long-term success.
The recruitment of high-profile figures like Newey and former Ferrari technical director Enrico Cardile signifies Stroll’s commitment to assembling a world-class team that can challenge for titles.
Dan Fallows’ journey from Red Bull Racing to become Aston Martin F1 technical director was marked by high expectations and significant responsibility. At Milton Keynes, he was instrumental in aerodynamics and car design during one of the most successful periods in F1 history.
His move was seen as a coup for the Silverstone-based team as they sought to elevate their performance and stature within Formula 1.
As Fallows transitions away from his role as technical director, it remains unclear what specific position he will occupy within the wider Aston Martin group. However, his experience and expertise will likely continue to contribute positively to the organization as it navigates its transitional phase.
