Alonso reveals Newey TEXT MESSAGES before Red Bull switch

Fernando Alonso has revealed he exchanged text messages with Adrian Newey in an effort to convince the design guru to join Aston Martin.

Newey ended months of speculation over his future this week, announcing that he had signed a multi-year deal to become the team's managing technical partner.

F1 QUALIFYING RESULTS: Verstappen humbled by TEAM-MATE as championship rival stunned

READ MORE: Ferrari star's crash prompts FIFTH red flag at chaotic Azerbaijan GP

The multi-million-pound deal will also see Newey become a key shareholder in the company.

READ MORE: Ricciardo admits Red Bull ‘privilege’ following F1 transfer news

Alonso reveals Newey switch persuasion

The Brit had been linked with a number of teams in the aftermath of his decision to resign from Red Bull earlier this year, with Ferrari believed to be frontrunners to secure his signature before Aston Martin swooped in.

The move represents a coup for the 2024 strugglers, who have fallen further behind their main rivals in what has been a disappointing campaign to date.

They hope that the acquisition of the man widely regarded as the sport's greatest-ever designer will enable them to become regular title challengers for years to come.

READ MORE: FIA investigate Red Bull star following Baku battle

Speaking ahead of this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix, two-time champion Alonso spoke of his excitement at the prospect of linking up with the 65-year-old, and admitted that the pair had made contact earlier in the season.

Addressing media in Baku, the Spaniard said: "I text him for sure, like everybody probably did, that wanted to work with him.

"I also saw him at the Monaco Historic Grand Prix when he was racing that week, and we spent half an hour chatting as well.

"We all tried to persuade him and I think that ultimately, Lawrence [Stroll's] vision, the new factory, and what Aston Martin wants for the future, together with Honda as well were probably key factors."

READ MORE: Red Bull driver dealt major blow with team set to 'terminate' contract THIS YEAR

Related

Latest F1 News

Red Bull chief discusses SHOCK Verstappen Aston Martin transfer rumours

• Today 09:12
• 1

Lando Norris

Norris rues 'silliness' following Verstappen battle

• Yesterday 13:59