New York Jets owner Woody Johnson has acquired a minority stake in the Aston Martin Formula 1 team, taking on the role of vice chairman on the board of directors with immediate effect. The former U.S. ambassador aims to expand the team’s American fanbase while leaving daily management with executive chairman Lawrence Stroll.
American billionaire Woody Johnson has expanded his sports portfolio into elite motorsport by purchasing a strategic minority stake in the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team, via Rich Cimini of ESPN and Sky Sports. Johnson joins the team’s board of directors as vice chairman with immediate effect.
The transaction adds to a sports business footprint that includes ownership of the NFL franchise the New York Jets, which he purchased in 2000. In addition to his NFL team—which last made the playoffs in 2010—he holds a 43 per cent stake in Premier League side Crystal Palace. His family business, Johnson & Johnson, is estimated to have a net valuation of $20.5b (£15.1b), as of June 2026.
Governance Structure and Stroll’s Controlling Share
While Johnson’s exact financial stake amount is currently unclear, Sky Sports reports that executive chairman Lawrence Stroll currently owns 33 per cent of the team. The remaining 67 per cent is split among several high-profile private equity firms, sovereign entities, and strategic investors.
Aston Martin confirmed that Johnson will not undertake any day-to-day management duties. Control of the company rests firmly with Lawrence Stroll, who continues to manage and control the company as executive chairman and controlling shareholder.
“I am extremely 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.”
Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman, Aston Martin Aramco
Stroll added that Johnson’s deep appreciation for the brand, combined with his commitment to innovation and commercial opportunity, makes him an ideal partner as the organization looks to the future.
Commercial Ambitions in the United States Market
Team leadership emphasized that Johnson’s onboarding is designed to accelerate commercial growth, particularly across North America. Formula 1 has experienced unprecedented growth in the United States, and Aston Martin views Johnson’s proven track record, extensive experience investing in sports franchises, and considerable network of influential relationships as vital assets.
“During my time as U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom, I have developed a deep appreciation for Aston Martin’s rich history, as well as [executive chairman] Lawrence Stroll’s strategic vision and entrepreneurial spirit.”
Woody Johnson, Vice Chairman, Aston Martin Aramco
Johnson stated that he is excited to partner with Stroll and contribute to the continued development of the team, with the ambition of building an organization capable of competing at the very highest level of the sport. Johnson also stated: We also share a commitment to growing the fanbase in the United States and introducing even more fans to the excitement of Formula 1.
Track Performance and Honda Power Unit Transition
The investment was announced ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, arriving while Aston Martin is currently 10th in the Constructors’ Championship after a poor first half of the season. The team faced initial setbacks due to starting work on their car late and partner Honda not meeting their targets for the new power unit regulations.
To counter those struggles, the team brought recent upgrades to the race at the Hungaroring. Further performance improvements are scheduled to debut with an updated power unit this weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix, which Aston Martin and partner Honda are optimistic will improve their performance further.
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