Former Ferrari simulations expert Marco Fainello has returned to Formula 1 as a consultant for Aston Martin, marking his first involvement in the sport in 13 years. Fainello, a key figure during Michael Schumacher’s dominant era at Ferrari, helped develop the team’s first simulator and later served as head of vehicle dynamics and performance development director before leaving in 2016.

His return strengthens Aston Martin’s simulation and vehicle modelling capabilities, which were highlighted as an area for improvement by Adrian Newey.

The 66-year-old F1 legend joined Aston Martin earlier this year as managing technical partner and shareholder, and is currently leading development of the AMR26, the team’s first car under the F1 2026 regulations, which introduce 50% electrification, fully sustainable fuels, and active aerodynamics.

Aston Martin has also bolstered its technical team with Giles Wood as simulation and vehicle modelling director, reuniting him with Newey after previous roles at McLaren and Red Bull. Additionally, former Red Bull strategist Nick Roberts is set to join for the 2026 season following gardening leave.

The addition of Fainello, alongside Wood and Roberts, underscores Aston Martin’s push to upgrade its technical and simulation expertise ahead of the 2026 regulation changes, as the team aims to compete at the highest level in the next era of Formula 1.