Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard believes Aston Martin will be the most improved team in the next two years, despite a torrid start to the 2026 season. Coulthard's prediction comes as a strong defense of the Silverstone-based outfit's long-term project, which has faced high expectations with Adrian Newey on board, two-time champion Fernando Alonso at the wheel, a brand-new Honda works power unit partnership, a state-of-the-art wind tunnel, and Lawrence Stroll's continuous financial backing.
However, the season has been disastrous so far. Aston Martin currently sits 10th in the constructors' championship with just one point, scored by Alonso at the Monaco Grand Prix. Coulthard acknowledges the car's current performance gap but remains convinced of a turnaround.
"Mark my words, Jolie, as true as we are not sitting in the same room, they will be the biggest improving team over the next two years," Coulthard stated. "And I will predict they will win grands prix in the next two years."
The team introduced an extensive upgrade package at the Hungarian Grand Prix, which showed a jump in performance. Lance Stroll finished 13th, and Alonso was in 14th, but they described it as a "huge step" towards the front of the midfield.
Coulthard's confidence in Aston Martin's future is based on the team's ability to consistently find performance, more downforce, and more power. He believes that with these improvements, the team will be in a strong position to challenge for grands prix wins in the next two years.
However, Coulthard's prediction is not without challenges. The team's current struggles and the competitive nature of Formula 1 mean that a turnaround is not guaranteed. Nonetheless, Coulthard's faith in Aston Martin's potential is a testament to the team's resilience and the strength of its long-term project.