F1 design genius Adrian Newey’s lack of ‘technical arrogance’ has been cited as one of the key traits that make him so good. Despite decades of F1 involvement, Adrian Newey still reigns supreme, most recently helping Red Bull Racing win the title last season.
Aston Martin’s new technical director, Dan Fallows, has worked alongside Adrian Newey for many years at Red Bull and says it has been an eye-opening experience to get to know him. Dan Fallows believes Adrian Newey’s ability to adapt so well to changes in F1 was a key factor because he didn’t believe he had the answers to everything. “I’m one of the lucky ones to work for Adrian and see how he works,” explains Dan Fallows. “He has a very clear approach to designing and developing cars, especially in terms of aerodynamics. Everyone knows that he has a no-compromise approach and attention to detail.” I think one of the things that I really liked about working with him was that he had no technical arrogance at all.” And I’m very open about being told I have a better idea, and it doesn’t really matter where the comment comes from.” He says that he has tried to instill this in the people he works with. “It’s definitely something I try to incorporate into my work,” said Dan Fallows. “I would urge a lot of technical teams to keep an open mind, even if they have a clear vision of how they want to develop and a clear idea of the car. “You have to be careful not to be technically arrogant. If someone suggests something better, be open-minded to whoever it is. That’s his[Newey]. I think it’s a great strength, and I hope I can inherit it.”