Tom McCullough, a seasoned engineer who has been a key figure at Aston Martin and its predecessor teams for over a decade, is set to leave the Silverstone-based Formula 1® outfit at the conclusion of the 2026 season. His departure marks the end of a long association with the team that has seen multiple transformations, from Force India through Racing Point to the current Aston Martin identity.
McCullough’s career with the team spans more than ten years, during which he held various roles, including trackside performance engineer and leadership positions focused on expanding the team’s involvement in different racing categories. In early 2025, he stepped away from direct involvement in the Formula 1® project to take on a senior leadership role outside the main F1® team. His former trackside responsibilities were subsequently assumed by Mike Krack, who now serves as Chief Trackside Officer.
Before joining Force India, McCullough began his Formula 1® career at Williams in 2002 and had a brief stint at Sauber. Throughout his time with the Silverstone squad, he worked alongside notable drivers such as Nico Hulkenberg, Rubens Barrichello, and Bruno Senna. Currently, Aston Martin sits 10th in the Teams' Championship during the 2026 season, continuing to develop its car with a B-spec chassis introduced in Hungary and further upgrades planned for upcoming races at Monza and Baku. The team also benefits from an upgraded power unit supplied by Honda, which was brought to the Zandvoort event.
Under the leadership of Adrian Newey, who serves as Team Principal and Managing Technical Partner, Aston Martin has been navigating the competitive challenges of the current Formula 1® era. McCullough’s departure comes amid ongoing efforts to improve the team’s performance and technical package. While his future plans have not been disclosed, his long-standing contribution to the team’s engineering and strategic development is well recognized within the paddock.
The transition in McCullough’s role and eventual exit reflects the evolving nature of team structures in Formula 1®, where experienced personnel often move into broader leadership or different motorsport roles. Aston Martin’s current position in the championship and its technical progress highlight the ongoing challenges faced by teams striving to climb the order in a highly competitive field.
As the 2026 season continues, Aston Martin will look to build on its recent upgrades and maintain momentum while preparing for the post-McCullough era. The team’s focus remains on refining its car and maximizing the potential of its driver lineup, with technical and strategic developments playing a crucial role in its campaign.
Tom McCullough’s departure marks a significant moment for Aston Martin, closing a chapter that spans multiple team identities and phases of growth. His experience and leadership have been integral to the team’s journey, and his exit will be noted as the squad continues to adapt and evolve within the Formula 1® landscape.
