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The Aston Martin team has announced a change in its ownership structure, with American billionaire Robert Wood Johnson acquiring a minority stake in the Formula 1 outfit. The former United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom also owns the New York Jets and is a shareholder in Premier League club Crystal Palace.
Johnson, better known as Woody Johnson, has acquired what Aston Martin describes as a "strategic minority stake." The exact size of the equity and the financial terms of the investment were not disclosed.
The 79-year-old businessman will immediately join Aston Martin's board of directors as Vice Chairman. However, his arrival will not alter the day-to-day management of the Formula 1 team, with Lawrence Stroll remaining Executive Chairman and majority shareholder.
In an official statement, Stroll said: "I am incredibly happy to welcome Woody to the Aston Martin family. His experience, passion, and investment further strengthen our position as we enter the next phase of our competitive journey."
"His deep respect for our brand, combined with his commitment to innovation and commercial opportunities, makes him an ideal partner as we look to the future," he added.
Why Johnson Invested in Aston Martin
Johnson is a prominent figure in American sports and business. He is an heir to the Johnson & Johnson fortune and has owned the NFL's New York Jets since 2000. He also has a stake in English football, having acquired a 43% share in Premier League club Crystal Palace in 2025.
The American also has strong ties to the United Kingdom. Johnson served as the US Ambassador to the UK between 2017 and 2021, following his appointment by President Donald Trump.
In a statement on Aston Martin's website, Johnson said: "During my tenure as US Ambassador to the UK, I developed a deep respect for Aston Martin's rich history, as well as Lawrence Stroll's strategic vision and entrepreneurial spirit."
"I am excited to partner with him and contribute to the team's continued development with the ambition of building an organization capable of competing at the highest level of the sport. We also share a commitment to growing the fanbase in the United States and introducing even more fans to the excitement of Formula 1," he added.
The news comes as team star Fernando Alonso has yet to make a decision about his Formula 1 future. Trackside Engineering Director Mike Krack stated on Thursday: "Yes, I mean, discussions have been going on for many, many months now. I think Fernando has always said he would make a decision around summer. And I think we will see a decision in the coming weeks."
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