Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 20 January 2026
Mercedes is set to become the sole supplier of safety vehicles for the 2026 Formula 1 season, as Aston Martin has pulled out.
According to a report first published by The Race, the British brand has chosen not to renew its contract with F1.
Aston Martin has provided safety and medical vehicles for the series since 2021, where the Vantage and DBX first appeared on track.
It was a rocky start, with the Aston Martin Vantage being both heavier and less powerful than the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series.
Weighing 45kg more and possessing 150kW less, the Vantage was labelled a “turtle” by Max Verstappen at the 2022 Australian Grand Prix.
“The safety car was driving so slow, it was like a turtle. Unbelievable,” said Verstappen.
“To drive 140km/h on the back straight, there was not a damaged car, so I don’t understand why we have to drive so slowly. We have to investigate.”
Following this incident, the Vantage underwent various upgrades that saw its pace on track improve.
It isn’t known as to why Aston Martin decided to opt out of the contract for 2026, but some reports have cited commercial reasons.
Aston Martin’s release simply states the brand’s deal “concluded at the end of the 2025 season.”
“Having amplified the brand’s return to F1, we are grateful for the association and success of holding this critical role on the grid for the past five years,” the statement adds.
