Week Ending 25th October 2026
Your guide to Issue 47
Settle in for another journey through the Aston Martin world — Blackthorn Racing's championship showdown in Barcelona, the Valkyrie's final WEC challenge, Honda's 500-race Formula 1 milestone, the extraordinary DBX S sound system and some wonderful Aston Martin heritage.
There's plenty to discover, from practical ownership stories to classic Aston Martins and the people behind the cars. Make yourself a coffee, take your time, and use the Issue 47 Navigator to explore the stories whenever you wish.
Take your time.
There's plenty worth discovering.
Image © Fotospeedy & Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Blackthorn Racing’s Aston Martin Vantage GT3.
EDITOR’S INTRODUCTION - DAN, FUEL THE PASSION
Welcome to Issue 47 of the Fuel the Passion Weekly Roundup!
It's another fascinating week in the world of Aston Martin, although not everything has gone quite as we'd hoped. After some encouraging performances in recent months, the World Endurance Championship's visit to Barcelona proved a disappointing outing for both the Valkyrie and Heart of Racing. With just one race remaining at Monza, there's still an opportunity to finish the season on a positive note, and perhaps even celebrate that elusive first WEC podium for the Valkyrie.
Meanwhile, Formula 1 heads to Austin for the United States Grand Prix, where Aston Martin will be hoping to find some much-needed improvement. The team has also unveiled a striking special livery celebrating five years of its partnership with Cognizant, although the reaction from supporters has been rather mixed. It's also a significant weekend for Honda, which celebrates its 500th Formula 1 race. We've taken the opportunity to look back at the manufacturer's remarkable history, from its pioneering successes in the 1960s to the unforgettable Senna years and its latest partnership with Aston Martin.
Of course, there's another race weekend occupying rather a lot of my thoughts! As this edition reaches you on Sunday morning, I'll be in Barcelona with Blackthorn Racing for the International GT Open season finale. With the team fighting for the Pro-Am championship, it's an extraordinary opportunity to experience the conclusion of a season from inside the garage, and I'm enormously excited to be capturing the weekend on film.
That visit comes at a particularly exciting time for Fuel the Passion, as our first two behind-the-scenes films produced for Blackthorn Racing are being released on the team's official YouTube channel. Filmed during September's Michelin Le Mans Cup meeting at Silverstone, the two-part series follows Claude Bovet, Tom Canning and the team through their preparations, qualifying and race day. Episode 1, Trust the Car, is already available to watch, while Episode 2, The Race Is On, premieres today at midday. I'll share more about the films, and where you can watch them, later in this edition. (Episode 2 link will go live at midday).
Away from motorsport, we've got an interesting mixture of modern technology, practical ownership advice and wonderful Aston Martin heritage. There's a closer look at the extraordinary £8,500 Bowers & Wilkins audio system available in the DBX S, some encouraging news for owners facing expensive rear-light repairs, and a delightful encounter with a 1956 DB2/4 courtesy of JayEmm on Cars. That last story leads rather nicely into our Car of the Week, a beautiful 1959 DB Mark III that helped establish one of Aston Martin's most recognisable design features.
I'm also delighted by the response to our latest AMOC Festival film, which has already passed 5,600 views at the time of writing. The comments and encouragement have been wonderful, and I'll share a little more about that towards the end of this week's edition.
It's a Roundup that brings together the challenges of modern racing, the realities of Aston Martin ownership and the remarkable history that makes these cars so special. Above all, there's plenty to look forward to, both on the circuit and here at Fuel the Passion.
So, wherever you're joining us from this Sunday morning, thank you for being here. Grab a coffee, make yourself comfortable, and let's get into Issue 47.
FIA WORLD ENDURANCE CHAMPIONSHIP | BARCELONA REVIEW
Barcelona Brings Aston Martin Back Down to Earth — But Monza Offers One Final Opportunity
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Valkyrie in action.
After the encouraging progress of recent races, Aston Martin arrived at the inaugural 6 Hours of Barcelona hoping to carry that momentum into the closing stages of the FIA World Endurance Championship. Instead, Sunday's race proved a frustrating afternoon for both the Valkyrie Hypercar programme and The Heart of Racing's Vantage LMGT3 challenge.
Toyota dominated the overall contest, securing a one-two finish and wrapping up the 2026 Hypercar Manufacturers' Championship. For Aston Martin, however, the attention now turns to what can still be achieved before the season concludes.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Alex Riberas preparing to race.
The #009 Valkyrie of Alex Riberas, Marco Sørensen and Roman De Angelis finished ninth overall, collecting another two championship points for its drivers. The sister #007, driven by Harry Tincknell and Tom Gamble, endured a much more difficult race and finished 17th. It was particularly disappointing after the #007 had topped Friday's second practice session, suggesting that the pace was there for a stronger result.
There was disappointment in LMGT3, too. The #23 Heart of Racing Vantage finished tenth in class, while the #27 of Ian James, Zacharie Robichon and Mattia Drudi finished 17th. Having won at Circuit of the Americas and finished second at Fuji, the #27 had arrived in Barcelona as a genuine championship contender. Unfortunately, the result dealt a decisive blow to those title ambitions.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Ian James.
One Last Race — What Can Aston Martin Realistically Achieve?
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. WEC Aston Martins, Fuji 2026.
The championship concludes with the 6 Hours of Monza on Sunday 8th November, and there’s still something worthwhile to fight for. Aston Martin sits sixth in the Hypercar Manufacturers' Championship with 58 points, a position it’s now mathematically assured of retaining. Fifth-placed Alpine is 46 points ahead, while seventh-placed Peugeot is 34 points behind, with a maximum of 26 points available at Monza.
For the Valkyrie programme, the real objective is therefore a strong final race and, ideally, that elusive first WEC podium.
In LMGT3, the #27 Heart of Racing Vantage has slipped from second to sixth in the Teams' Championship, remaining on 62 points. The title is now beyond reach, with the leading #33 TF Sport Corvette on 92 points, but second place remains mathematically possible. A return to the podium at Monza could still lift the Aston Martin several places in the final standings. The sister #23 sits ninth on 51 points, making a strong points finish and an improvement in its championship position the more realistic target.
ONE RACE. WHAT'S STILL POSSIBLE?
Aston Martin's championship position after Barcelona, and what its four entries can realistically achieve at the Monza season finale.
| CHAMPIONSHIP / ENTRY | AFTER BARCELONA | MATHEMATICALLY POSSIBLE | REALISTIC MONZA OBJECTIVE |
|---|---|---|---|
| HYPERCAR · MANUFACTURERS Aston Martin | 6TH 58 POINTS | POSITION SECURED Sixth place is guaranteed. Neither Alpine ahead nor Peugeot behind can be reached. | Target a breakthrough Valkyrie podium and finish the season with a strong points result. |
| HYPERCAR · DRIVERS #007 Valkyrie | 14TH 42 POINTS | PLACES TO GAIN Up to 68 points available in total. Several higher positions remain within reach. | A top-five race finish would provide a strong conclusion and could improve the drivers' final ranking. |
| HYPERCAR · DRIVERS #009 Valkyrie | 25TH 6 POINTS | PLACES TO GAIN Up to 32 points available in total. A climb up the lower standings is possible. | Another points finish, ideally inside the top eight, would build on Barcelona. |
| LMGT3 · TEAMS #27 Heart of Racing | 6TH 62 POINTS | RUNNER-UP POSSIBLE A maximum of 88 points. Second place remains mathematically possible; the championship title is out of reach. | Fight for another podium and recover places lost at Barcelona. A top-five championship finish is a sensible target. |
| LMGT3 · TEAMS #23 Heart of Racing | 9TH 51 POINTS | HIGHER FINISH POSSIBLE A maximum of 77 points. Even second is mathematically possible, but would need an exceptional outcome. | Secure a strong class finish and move up from ninth in the teams' standings. |
THE BIG PICTURE Aston Martin cannot improve its sixth-place Hypercar Manufacturers' position, but Monza still offers opportunities for a Valkyrie breakthrough and a stronger championship finish for Heart of Racing. Mathematical possibilities are not predictions.
Standings: FIA WEC after Barcelona, 18 October 2026. Maximum final-round score assumes 25 points for victory plus one qualifying pole-position bonus point. Championship positions remain subject to final results and tie-break rules.
Barcelona may have interrupted Aston Martin's recent momentum, but it shouldn't overshadow the progress made throughout 2026. The Valkyrie has twice finished fourth, led a WEC race outright and increasingly demonstrated its ability to challenge established Hypercar manufacturers. Meanwhile, Heart of Racing has delivered a victory and several podium finishes in LMGT3. Monza offers one final opportunity to end the season on a high.
For the full race analysis, results and championship standings, visit the FTP World Endurance Championship section of our Motorsport Hub.
While Aston Martin's endurance racing programme prepares for one final opportunity at Monza, attention also turns to the other side of the Atlantic, where the Formula 1 team faces a very different challenge. The United States Grand Prix awaits, and Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will be hoping Austin provides some much-needed encouragement.
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ASTON MARTIN MOTORSPORT | BEHIND THE SCENES
Road to Race Returns — Inside Aston Martin's WEC Campaign
For those of us following Aston Martin's progress in the World Endurance Championship, there's a welcome opportunity to see what life is really like behind the scenes with The Heart of Racing. On 20th October, Aston Martin released the third episode of Road to Race, Season Two, a fascinating 39-minute documentary following the team through three rounds of the 2026 championship: São Paulo, Circuit of the Americas and Fuji.
Rather than simply revisiting the race results, the film takes viewers inside the garages, driver briefings and post-session discussions, revealing how much work goes into finding those final fractions of a second. We hear drivers and engineers discussing tyre management, car balance, race strategy and the challenge of translating promising performance into results.
There's plenty to celebrate, too. The documentary revisits The Heart of Racing's impressive qualifying performances, its LMGT3 victory at Circuit of the Americas and the Valkyrie's increasingly convincing pace against established Hypercar opposition. Perhaps the most interesting aspect is the team's growing confidence. The Valkyrie is no longer simply a newcomer finding its feet. Its drivers increasingly believe they have a car capable of challenging towards the front, even if converting that potential into a podium finish remains unfinished business.
The film doesn't disguise the frustrations, either. We see the disappointment when promising opportunities slip away, alongside the determination to understand what went wrong and return stronger at the next race. For FTP readers who have followed the Valkyrie's development throughout the season, this is well worth watching. It provides a revealing look at the people behind the programme and helps explain why, despite occasional setbacks, there's genuine encouragement about Aston Martin's progress.
FORMULA 1 | UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX
Austin Awaits — Aston Martin Heads to Texas Searching for Progress
Image © Honda Motor Co. Ltd & Aston Martin Aramco. Used for editorial purposes. Fernando Alonso leaves the pit garage at Singapore 2026.
Formula 1 returns to the Circuit of The Americas this weekend for the United States Grand Prix, with Aston Martin hoping to find some much-needed encouragement as the 2026 season enters its final stretch.
The demanding 5.513-kilometre circuit presents a particularly difficult challenge for teams struggling to find consistent performance. Its sweeping high-speed corners, heavy braking zones and technical final sector demand a well-balanced car, leaving little room to disguise weaknesses. For Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, the priority will be to extract everything possible from the AMR26 and challenge for a place among the points-paying positions.
Image © Honda Motor Co. Ltd & Aston Martin Aramco. Used for editorial purposes. Fernando Alonso, Singapore 2026.
Aston Martin arrives in Austin following another difficult outing in Singapore, where Alonso finished 16th and Stroll retired. With just seven championship points accumulated so far, the team remains tenth in the Constructors' Championship. The challenge is no longer simply about occasional flashes of pace; Aston Martin needs to turn those moments into meaningful race results.
Sunday's 56-lap Grand Prix begins at 20:00 UK time, after this edition of the Weekly Roundup has been published. Whatever the outcome, Austin offers another opportunity to measure the team's progress before the championship moves on to Mexico City the following weekend.
THE FINAL SIX
Aston Martin's championship position heading into the United States Grand Prix.
WHAT CAN ASTON MARTIN STILL ACHIEVE? Ninth place remains a realistic championship target. Aston Martin needs to overturn a five-point deficit to Williams while protecting its seven-point advantage over Cadillac. Scoring consistently across the final six races will be the priority.
Championship standings after Singapore, 11 October 2026. Six scheduled Grands Prix remain as of 20 October.
Although Aston Martin's current Formula 1 performances have provided little reason for celebration, the team has given supporters something rather different to talk about ahead of the United States Grand Prix. A striking new livery has been unveiled to celebrate five years of its partnership with Cognizant, accompanied by a short reveal film that has prompted some interesting reactions from fans.
A NEW LOOK FOR AUSTIN
Five Years of Cognizant and a Mixed Reception
Aston Martin has unveiled a special one-off livery for the United States Grand Prix, celebrating five years of its partnership with technology company Cognizant. The design marks another chapter in a relationship that began alongside Aston Martin's return to Formula 1 in 2021. The team has released a short, 49-second reveal film, which you can watch above. It's worth taking a moment to view, particularly as the presentation uses digital graphics to showcase the car rather than conventional footage of it on the circuit.
The Cognizant partnership has evolved considerably over the past five years. Earlier in 2026, the company became Aston Martin's Global AI Services Partner, reflecting the increasing role of artificial intelligence, data analysis and digital technology within the team. The special livery is intended to celebrate that relationship and the ambitions of both organisations.
However, the reaction beneath Aston Martin's official YouTube video offers an interesting glimpse into the mood among some supporters.
There are certainly positive comments about the design, with several viewers praising its appearance and wishing the team well. Yet a noticeable number of the early responses are rather less enthusiastic about Aston Martin's current Formula 1 performances. Jokes about finishing towards the back of the field appear repeatedly, while others question the emphasis on AI and promotional activity when the team's competitiveness remains a concern.
The digitally produced presentation has also attracted some scepticism, particularly from viewers already unconvinced by the growing emphasis on artificial intelligence. Of course, YouTube comments aren't a scientific measure of public opinion, and we're looking at a relatively small selection of early reactions. Nevertheless, there's an interesting contrast here. Aston Martin is celebrating a significant technological partnership and unveiling an eye-catching design, while some of its supporters are understandably more interested in seeing tangible improvements on the circuit.
There's nothing wrong with celebrating a partnership or introducing a special livery. Formula 1 has always combined engineering, commercial relationships and spectacle. However, as Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll prepare for the United States Grand Prix, the team will surely be hoping that its performance gives supporters something more substantial to celebrate than a new paint scheme.
FORMULA 1 | HONDA CELEBRATES 500 RACES
From Ginther to Senna, Button to Aston Martin — Honda's 500-Race Formula 1 Journey
United States Grand Prix | Austin, Texas | 23rd–25th October 2026
This weekend's United States Grand Prix is particularly significant for Honda, as the Japanese manufacturer celebrates its 500th Formula 1 race appearance. It's a remarkable milestone in a motorsport journey stretching back more than six decades, encompassing pioneering victories, extraordinary drivers, world championships and some of the most memorable cars ever to compete in Formula 1.
Today, that journey continues with Aston Martin, as Honda prepares its power units for another demanding weekend at the Circuit of the Americas. But before looking ahead to Austin, it's worth remembering some of the extraordinary moments that have brought the manufacturer this far.
1960s — Where the Story Began
Image © Honda Motor Co. Ltd. Used for editorial purposes. Honda’s first F1 victory - Mexico, 1965
Honda entered Formula 1 at the 1964 German Grand Prix, becoming one of the first Japanese manufacturers to challenge the established European teams at the highest level of motorsport.
Just over a year later, at the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix, American driver Richie Ginther delivered Honda's first Formula 1 victory behind the wheel of the beautiful RA272. It was a landmark achievement for a manufacturer still finding its feet in international motor racing and demonstrated Honda's considerable engineering ambition.
The foundations had been laid for something extraordinary.
1980s & 1990s — The Senna Years and Honda's Golden Era
Image © Honda Motor Co. Ltd. Used for editorial purposes. Ayrton Senna in his McLaren powered by the Honda RA100E engine during the 1990 F1 season
For many enthusiasts, Honda's most unforgettable Formula 1 period will always be associated with Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost and the remarkable McLaren-Honda partnership.
During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Honda-powered cars became almost synonymous with success. Williams and McLaren enjoyed extraordinary championship-winning campaigns, while Senna's performances behind the wheel of Honda-powered McLarens created some of the most iconic images in Formula 1 history.
The 1988 season remains particularly memorable. McLaren-Honda won an astonishing 15 of the 16 Grands Prix, with Senna securing his first World Drivers' Championship.
It was a golden period for Honda, cementing the manufacturer's reputation as one of Formula 1's great engine builders.
2000s — Jenson Button Delivers Another Historic Victory
Image © Honda Motor Co. Ltd. Used for editorial purposes. BAR Honda 2004, Jenson Button
Honda's Formula 1 involvement continued into the new millennium, including a return as a full works team.
One of the most memorable moments came at the 2006 Hungarian Grand Prix, when Jenson Button claimed his maiden Formula 1 victory driving the Honda RA106.
In a dramatic race affected by changing weather conditions, Button produced an outstanding performance to secure his first win and Honda's first victory as a constructor since 1967.
For British Formula 1 supporters, it was a particularly special occasion, and another important chapter in Honda's remarkable history.
2026 — A New Chapter With Aston Martin
Fast-forward to Austin in 2026, and Honda's Formula 1 journey has entered another fascinating chapter, this time alongside Aston Martin.
The partnership is still working through considerable challenges, with the AMR26 struggling to deliver the competitiveness both organisations had hoped for. However, Honda's long history of overcoming technical obstacles and developing championship-winning machinery provides an important reminder of the manufacturer's engineering experience.
Image © Honda Motor Co. Ltd. Used for editorial purposes. Shintaro Orihara.
Ahead of this weekend's race, Shintaro Orihara, Honda's Trackside General Manager and Chief Engineer, confirmed that preparations have been completed:
"Our power units have been fully serviced and are ready for Austin, where we will give it our utmost with the package we have."
Orihara also reflected on the significance of Honda's milestone:
"The United States Grand Prix in Austin is always a special event. This year, we have the privilege of celebrating 500 races in Formula 1, which brings more excitement and pride to the weekend."
Those comments underline the occasion's importance, although the immediate challenge remains extracting the maximum performance and reliability from the current Aston Martin-Honda package. The milestone is something to celebrate, but neither organisation will be satisfied until that rich engineering heritage begins translating into more competitive results.
The celebrations will also be visible throughout the Austin weekend. Both Aston Martin AMR26 cars will carry a special Honda500 commemorative logo, while Honda's trackside engineers will wear anniversary uniforms. A commemorative photograph is also planned for Friday morning, bringing together Fernando Alonso, Lance Stroll, Lawrence Stroll, Adrian Newey and Honda personnel. It's a fitting acknowledgement of an extraordinary engineering journey, even if the team's immediate priority remains improving its competitiveness.
From Ginther's pioneering victory in Mexico to Senna's championship years, Button's breakthrough in Hungary and today's Aston Martin partnership, Honda's Formula 1 story has been one of ambition, innovation, setbacks and remarkable achievements.
Five hundred races is an extraordinary milestone. For Honda and Aston Martin, the ambition now is to make the next chapter every bit as memorable as those that came before.
Image © Honda Motor Co. Ltd & Aston Martin Aramco. Used for editorial purposes. Lance Stroll earlier in the season, Belgium 2026.
Honda's history reminds us just how much perseverance and determination are required to achieve success in motorsport. Those qualities are equally evident further down the racing ladder, where another Aston Martin team arrives at a decisive weekend. For Blackthorn Racing, Barcelona offers the opportunity to turn a season of hard work into championship glory.
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INTERNATIONAL GT OPEN | BARCELONA SEASON FINALE
Blackthorn Racing Heads to Barcelona With a Championship on the Line
Image © Fotospeedy & Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes.
For Blackthorn Racing, this weekend represents one of the most important moments of the 2026 season. The International GT Open reaches its conclusion at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, with the British Aston Martin team arriving in Spain determined to turn a hugely encouraging campaign into championship success.
Image © Fotospeedy & Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Charles Bateman.
At the centre of the title fight is Charles Bateman, who leads the Pro-Am Drivers' Championship with 88 points, eight clear of nearest challenger Alexander Fach on 80. Bateman will share Blackthorn's #97 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 Evo with Portuguese driver Henrique Chaves, who joins him for the finale in place of Jonny Adam. With two races remaining, Blackthorn arrives in Barcelona holding a valuable advantage, although the championship is far from decided.
The team has already demonstrated its competitiveness throughout the year, including an impressive Pro-Am double victory at Paul Ricard. Those performances have helped establish Blackthorn as a serious title contender, but Barcelona offers no guarantees. Qualifying, race strategy, pit stops and driver consistency could all influence the outcome, particularly with championship rivals knowing that this is their final opportunity to overturn the points deficit.
ROAD TO THE TITLE
Pro-Am Drivers' Championship · Two races remaining
| POS | DRIVER | POINTS | GAP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Charles BatemanBlackthorn Racing · Aston Martin | 88 | LEADER |
| 02 | Alexander Fach | 80 | −8 |
| 03 | Karol Basz / Marcin JedlińskiJoint third | 68 | −20 |
POINTS TO GUARANTEE THE TITLE
Across the final two races, regardless of Fach's results.
Positions refer to Pro-Am class results, not overall race positions. Fewer points could be sufficient if Fach drops points. Calculations assume full points, normal classification and no subsequent penalties.
Standings after Monza · 2026 International GT Open sporting regulations. The third-place drivers cannot win the title outright.
This is also a particularly exciting weekend for Fuel the Passion. Following our first behind-the-scenes experience with Blackthorn Racing at Silverstone, we've been invited to join the team in Barcelona to document the championship finale from inside the garage and paddock. We'll be following the preparations, conversations, challenges and emotions that television coverage rarely has time to explore.
Image © Fotospeedy & Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Preparing to race.
Our aim is to give viewers a genuine understanding of what it takes to compete at this level of international GT racing. Whatever the championship outcome, we're hoping to capture the human stories behind the racing: the pressure on the drivers, the work of the engineers and mechanics, and the determination of a team fighting for success. It's an opportunity to show not simply what happens on the circuit, but everything taking place behind the scenes that contributes to the final result.
Barcelona's finale takes place across 23rd–25th October, with the championship-deciding races unfolding after this edition of the Weekly Roundup has been prepared.
By the time many readers reach this article, Blackthorn Racing will already be immersed in one of its biggest weekends of the year.
Whatever happens, it promises to be a fascinating conclusion to the season. We'll bring you the full story through the FTP Motorsport Hub and our forthcoming films, including exclusive behind-the-scenes coverage of Blackthorn Racing's weekend in Spain.
Image © Fotospeedy & Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Blackthorn Racing’s Aston Martin Vantage GT3.
While the focus this weekend is firmly on Barcelona and Blackthorn Racing's championship ambitions, there's another part of the team's story I'd love to share with you. Last month, Fuel the Passion spent two days behind the scenes with Blackthorn at Silverstone, capturing the people, preparations and pressures of a Michelin Le Mans Cup race weekend. Those experiences have now become two documentary films, offering a rather different perspective on what happens inside a professional racing team.
Time for a cuppa?
We've reached the halfway point of Issue 47, although finding somewhere suitable to stop wasn't quite as straightforward as we'd imagined! Our halfway marker originally landed rather inconveniently in the middle of Blackthorn Racing's story, and we weren't about to interrupt a good racing feature just to satisfy the mathematics.
Fortunately, the numbers have worked in our favour. A perfectly timed pit stop at 50%! Put the kettle on, because we've still got plenty of Aston Martin stories to enjoy, beginning with an exclusive look behind the scenes at Blackthorn Racing.
Halfway through Issue 47.
A perfectly timed pit stop.
BLACKTHORN RACING | BEHIND THE SCENES AT SILVERSTONE
Inside Blackthorn Racing — Two Films, One Extraordinary Weekend
Image © Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Blackthorn Racing Aston Martin Vantage GT3 out on track at Silverstone 2026.
There's something rather special about being invited behind the scenes of a racing team. Watching a race from the grandstands is one thing, but spending time inside the garage, listening to the conversations and seeing how everyone works together offers an entirely different perspective.
Image © Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Claude Bovet & Tom Canning - Silverstone 2026.
Back in September, Fuel the Passion was invited to join Blackthorn Racing at Silverstone for the Michelin Le Mans Cup.
Over two days, I followed the team as they prepared their Aston Martin Vantage GT3 for a demanding weekend of competition, capturing everything from the quieter moments in the garage to the intensity of qualifying and race day.
The result is a two-part documentary series, filmed and produced by Fuel the Passion for Blackthorn Racing, which is now being released on the team's official YouTube channel.
Episode 1 — Trust the Car
Released Friday 23rd October 2026
The first episode takes us inside the team on Friday, as the preparations begin and attention turns towards the challenge ahead.
We hear from Claude Bovet, Blackthorn Racing's founder, team owner and amateur racing driver, as he reflects on the importance of confidence and trusting the car. Professional racing driver Tom Canning offers his perspective on preparation and the relationship between driver and machine, while Technical Manager David Gillies provides an insight into the work taking place behind the scenes.
What emerges is a picture of a team in which every detail receives attention, but where the human relationships are just as interesting as the machinery.
Episode 2 — The Race Is On
Premieres Sunday 25th October 2026 at 12 noon (UK time)
The second episode follows Blackthorn Racing into Saturday, when preparation gives way to competition. With qualifying to negotiate and a race to contest, the pressure increases for everyone involved. We follow the drivers, engineers and mechanics as the weekend unfolds, capturing the decisions, emotions and conversations that rarely make it into conventional race coverage.
There are moments of anticipation, plenty of teamwork and some revealing reflections from those at the centre of the action. Rather than tell you how the weekend turns out, I'd much prefer you to experience it alongside the team.
Please note that Episode 2 premieres at 12 noon (UK time) on Sunday 25th October, so the video link may not be accessible until then. If you're reading this week's Roundup earlier in the morning, do come back at midday to enjoy the film.
A Different Perspective on Motorsport
Image © Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Blackthorn Racing Aston Martin Vantage GT3 in the pits, Silverstone 2026.
One of the things I've always wanted Fuel the Passion to explore is the human side of Aston Martin ownership and motorsport. These films offer an opportunity to do exactly that, taking viewers beyond the race results to meet the people whose dedication makes a weekend of competition possible.
I'm so grateful to Claude Bovet, Julien Draper, Dan Jeal and everyone at Blackthorn Racing for welcoming me into their team and allowing me to capture the weekend so openly.
Both episodes are available through the Blackthorn Racing YouTube channel, and I hope you'll enjoy seeing this side of the team as much as I enjoyed filming it. With Blackthorn now preparing for its championship-deciding weekend in Barcelona, it's also an exciting moment to look ahead to the next chapter of the story.
Image © Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Blackthorn Racing Aston Martin Vantage GT3 out on track at Silverstone 2026.
There may also be one more Silverstone film to come, this time on the Fuel the Passion YouTube channel. While the two Blackthorn Racing episodes tell the story from inside the team, I'm hoping to produce a separate film featuring my own experiences of the weekend, offering a slightly different, more personal perspective on what it was like to be part of the action. It's still in the planning stages, but I'll share more details once those plans are confirmed.
If you've enjoyed these films, I'd really encourage you to subscribe to the Blackthorn Racing YouTube channel. There's more behind-the-scenes content on the way, with Fuel the Passion filming the team's International GT Open championship finale in Barcelona this weekend. With Blackthorn fighting for the Pro-Am title, it promises to be quite a story, whatever the outcome. We'll be following the team through another important race weekend, capturing the people, preparations and atmosphere as the championship reaches its conclusion.
The Silverstone films are just the beginning of what I hope will be an exciting series of collaborations between Fuel the Passion and Blackthorn Racing. I'm looking forward to sharing more of these experiences with you over the coming weeks, months and well into 2027.
From the unmistakable roar of an Aston Martin Vantage GT3 at Silverstone, we turn to a rather different kind of soundtrack. Aston Martin has always understood that the experience of driving extends well beyond performance, and in the luxurious surroundings of the DBX S, it's not just the engine providing the entertainment. But is an £8,500 Bowers & Wilkins sound system really worth the investment?
ASTON MARTIN TECHNOLOGY
The Sound of Luxury — Is the DBX S's £8,500 Bowers & Wilkins System Worth It?
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes.
Aston Martin has always understood the importance of sound. Whether it's the distinctive character of a V8, the unmistakable howl of a V12 or the quieter pleasures of a long-distance grand tourer, what we hear can be just as memorable as what we see. In the new DBX S, however, there's another soundtrack competing for attention.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin DBX S.
The luxury SUV can be specified with a premium audio system developed by British hi-fi specialist Bowers & Wilkins, bringing a different kind of engineering expertise into Aston Martin's high-performance SUV. At a reported £8,500, it's certainly no ordinary stereo upgrade, and it raises an interesting question: just how much should an owner be prepared to spend on exceptional in-car audio?
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin DB12.
To understand the thinking behind this system, it's worth returning to May 2023, when Aston Martin announced Bowers & Wilkins as its official audio partner. The relationship debuted with the DB12, the first Aston Martin to offer the newly developed surround sound system. It was an important part of the company's ambitions for its next generation of sports cars, combining performance and craftsmanship with a more sophisticated approach to interior technology.
The original DB12 installation featured 15 speakers, 1,170 watts of power and a 14-channel amplifier. More interesting than the numbers, however, was the engineering behind them. Aston Martin and Bowers & Wilkins worked together to position the speakers within the cabin, carefully considering their direction, symmetry and relationship with the surrounding interior surfaces.
The system incorporated technology developed for Bowers & Wilkins' high-end domestic loudspeakers, including Aluminium Double Dome tweeters and Continuum mid-range drivers. The latter use a specially developed woven composite material to help control unwanted resonance, improving the clarity of voices and instruments. Meanwhile, the company's distinctive Tweeter-on-Top technology helps reduce sound reflections from the windscreen, directing more of the music towards the occupants.
These details illustrate why developing a genuinely high-quality car audio system involves considerably more than installing additional speakers. A vehicle's cabin is a challenging acoustic environment, with glass, leather, metal and other surfaces all influencing how sound travels. Road and engine noise introduce further complications, making the integration of the system particularly important.
Three years later, that original partnership has evolved into something even more ambitious.
The upgraded Bowers & Wilkins system available in the DBX S features 23 speakers, 1,600 watts of power and 21 channels of amplification, compared with 13 speakers and 790 watts in the standard installation. It's a substantial specification, designed to create an immersive listening experience for everyone travelling inside Aston Martin's flagship SUV.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes.
In a review published on 16th October, respected audio publication What Hi-Fi? put the system through its paces. The verdict was largely positive, with particular praise for its clarity, refinement and ability to reveal subtle musical details. The reviewer was impressed by the spacious presentation and the way individual instruments and vocals could be reproduced, creating a convincing sense of immersion within the cabin.
It wasn't without criticism, however. The review noted that the bass could be better controlled and integrated, particularly when compared with some of the finest automotive audio systems available. Nevertheless, the overall assessment suggested that Bowers & Wilkins has delivered something considerably more sophisticated than simply an impressive collection of speakers.
When Aston Martin first announced the partnership in 2023, Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman spoke about creating an immersive, emotional experience that complemented the sound of the company's engines. It was an interesting ambition: rather than viewing the audio system as a separate piece of equipment, Aston Martin wanted it to become part of the overall character of the car.
There's another consideration here, and one that could become increasingly relevant in the years ahead. As the motor industry adapts to tighter noise and emissions regulations, alongside the gradual transition towards electrification, the soundtrack of the modern performance car is changing. Exhaust systems have become more tightly controlled, cabins are increasingly insulated from unwanted noise, and the unmistakable mechanical character that enthusiasts have traditionally associated with powerful engines is not always as prominent as it once was.
For those of us who grew up appreciating the sound of a great engine, that's a significant change. The distinctive rumble of a V8 or the rising note of a V12 has always been part of the emotional connection between driver and machine. If future generations of performance cars offer less of that mechanical soundtrack, perhaps the quality of the music we listen to will become increasingly important.
Could this be the beginning of a wider shift in what buyers expect from their cars? Premium audio systems have existed for decades, of course, but there's an argument that they could move from being desirable luxury extras towards becoming an increasingly important part of the driving experience. Not because music can truly replace the character of a great engine, but because it offers another way of creating atmosphere, excitement and enjoyment behind the wheel.
It's an intriguing thought. As one familiar element of the motoring experience becomes quieter, perhaps manufacturers will invest even more heavily in making another sound extraordinary.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin DBX S.
That philosophy seems particularly appropriate for the DBX S. While its performance credentials remain central to its appeal, the vehicle must also deliver the comfort, refinement and technology expected of a luxury SUV. A carefully engineered audio system fits naturally into that proposition, even if its price will inevitably raise a few eyebrows.
The more interesting question is whether such an expensive option can genuinely transform the ownership experience. Unlike a performance upgrade, its value isn't measured in acceleration times or horsepower. Instead, it comes down to how much pleasure the driver and passengers derive from listening to music, particularly during longer journeys.
For buyers who place a high value on sound quality, a premium system developed by two established British engineering brands may be an appealing addition. Others might reasonably conclude that £8,500 could be better spent elsewhere on the specification sheet. After all, that's a substantial sum for something many owners might only fully appreciate when the engine is quiet and the road ahead is relatively peaceful.
Either way, it's fascinating to see how a partnership first announced alongside the DB12 has developed. Aston Martin and Bowers & Wilkins have clearly invested considerable effort in bringing high-end audio engineering into the modern Aston Martin cabin. Sometimes, the soundtrack is entirely of the owner's choosing.
Further reading: What Hi-Fi? — Bowers & Wilkins for Aston Martin DBX S (2026) review
From the Aston Martin archive: Aston Martin announces Bowers & Wilkins as official audio partner — 30th May 2023
The technology fitted to modern Aston Martins can be remarkable, although sophistication often comes with considerable expense. That becomes particularly apparent when something goes wrong. While an £8,500 audio upgrade is a choice, an unexpected repair bill is rather less optional, as my own experience with the FTP Vantage demonstrated.
ASTON MARTIN OWNERSHIP
When a Failed Light Costs Thousands — Why Nicholas Mee's New Repair Service Caught My Attention
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. V12 Vantage rear light.
Sometimes, the most interesting developments in Aston Martin ownership aren't about new models, performance figures or extraordinary auction prices. Occasionally, they're about something much more practical: finding a sensible way to repair a car without facing an enormous replacement bill.
This week, independent Aston Martin specialist Nicholas Mee & Co announced a new rear lamp exchange and repair programme for selected VH-generation Aston Martins. It's the sort of news that might otherwise pass unnoticed, but having experienced the extraordinary cost of replacing a failed headlamp on my own FTP Vantage, it certainly caught my attention.
Image © Fuel the Passion. FTP Vantage at JCT600, Aston Martin Leeds having the headlight replaced.
Towards the end of 2025, the right-hand front headlamp on my 2019 Aston Martin Vantage began developing condensation. Initially, it was relatively minor, but the moisture gradually became more persistent until water was visibly accumulating inside the unit. Eventually, the headlamp failed completely, triggering a dashboard warning.
What followed was a rather sobering introduction to the cost of modern Aston Martin lighting systems.
My first enquiry was with Aston Workshop, who quoted £3,272.33 plus VAT for a replacement headlamp, with fitting bringing the total to £4,142.80. I explored alternative solutions, contacting several independent specialists to establish whether the original unit could be repaired rather than replaced.
Greasley Electronics had experience repairing Aston Martin headlights, but an assessment would require removing the unit and transporting it to their premises, with no guarantee of a successful repair. McGurk also investigated the possibility on my behalf but explained that they hadn't previously repaired a headlamp from my generation of Vantage and weren't comfortable attempting it.
I even considered sourcing a replacement unit independently, although the potential risks, particularly around warranty protection and the possibility of another failure, made that option less attractive.
Eventually, I chose Aston Martin Leeds, who supplied and fitted a brand-new headlamp for £3,800, including a 12-month Aston Martin warranty. It was a considerable amount of money for what most people would regard as a relatively ordinary component, particularly as my extended warranty had expired only two or three months earlier.
I documented the experience in our FTP Vantage Maintenance Log because I wanted other owners to understand the genuine costs and decisions involved. It also left me wondering why repairing expensive lighting assemblies isn't more widely available, especially when the alternative can involve replacing an entire unit.
This brings us back to Nicholas Mee.
The company's newly announced programme covers selected rear lamp assemblies fitted to VH-platform models, including the DB9, DBS V12, Rapide, Virage and earlier V8 and V12 Vantage. Some original assemblies have become difficult to obtain or prohibitively expensive, creating a growing problem for owners hoping to keep these cars in excellent condition.
Image © Aston Martin Lagonda. Used for editorial purposes. Aston Martin Rapide.
Rather than requiring customers to source a completely new unit, Nicholas Mee's Aston Store offers refurbished replacement lamps through an exchange programme. Customers order an eligible refurbished assembly and return their existing lamp for assessment. The purchase price includes a £200 surcharge, refundable if the original unit is returned within 14 days and is suitable for refurbishment. Refurbished lamps are supplied with a six-month warranty, and the service is currently available to UK customers.
It's important to distinguish this programme from my own experience. The FTP Vantage is a newer-generation car, and my problem involved a front headlamp suffering from moisture ingress, not a VH-platform rear lamp. Nicholas Mee isn't advertising this particular exchange programme as a solution for my car. Nevertheless, the principle is encouraging. If a specialist can successfully refurbish a costly electrical component, providing a properly functioning replacement with warranty protection, that could offer owners a welcome alternative to purchasing an expensive new assembly.
As Aston Martins age, the availability of replacement components and the expertise required to repair them will become increasingly important. It's one reason I value the work undertaken by independent specialists, whose willingness to investigate practical alternatives can make a genuine difference to the long-term ownership experience.
Having personally faced a £3,800 lighting repair bill, I can certainly appreciate the value of that approach. I hope Nicholas Mee's initiative encourages further developments across other models and components, including newer-generation Aston Martins.
After all, these are cars we want to drive, enjoy and preserve for years to come. Finding sensible ways to maintain them is every bit as important as celebrating their performance.
Further reading: Nicholas Mee — Rear Lamp Exchange & Repair Programme
From the FTP ownership diary: The True Cost of Owning My Aston Martin Vantage — Maintenance & Running Costs
Keeping an Aston Martin in excellent mechanical condition is one of the responsibilities that comes with ownership, particularly as the years pass and original components become harder to find. Yet there's also something enormously rewarding about seeing these cars continue to be driven and enjoyed. That brings us to a wonderful example of Aston Martin heritage, courtesy of JayEmm on Cars.
Affiliate link note: Some links may be affiliate links, which means Fuel the Passion may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support.
ASTON MARTIN HERITAGE
Seventy Years Old and Still Turning Heads — JayEmm Discovers the Joy of the DB2/4
There's something wonderful about seeing a classic Aston Martin being driven as its makers intended, rather than spending its life hidden beneath a dust sheet. This week, automotive YouTuber JayEmm on Cars got behind the wheel of a remarkable 1956 Aston Martin DB2/4, discovering that seven decades of motoring history haven't diminished its ability to entertain.
The car belongs to enthusiast Nigel, who acquired it in 2008 after it had spent approximately 35 years off the road. What followed was a sympathetic restoration, retaining as much of its original character as possible while making sensible improvements to reliability and usability. Its striking bare-metal finish, competition modifications and wonderfully honest patina tell the story of a machine that has been lived with, driven and enjoyed.
This is certainly no pampered museum exhibit. Nigel has competed with the car in sprints and hill climbs, while a recent 4,000-mile journey demonstrates that its adventurous spirit remains very much alive. Even a dent in the roof, apparently caused by a frustrated previous owner following an unfortunate encounter with the heavy rear hatch, has been preserved as part of the car's history.
JayEmm's film also explores why the DB2/4 deserves greater recognition. Introduced in 1953, it developed Aston Martin's earlier DB2 into a more practical 2+2 grand tourer, establishing a formula that would influence generations of David Brown-era Aston Martins. Beneath the bonnet sits a development of the Lagonda straight-six engine associated with W. O. Bentley, while the car's distinctive engineering reflects Aston Martin's determination to combine sporting ability with long-distance touring comfort.
What makes the video especially enjoyable is JayEmm's genuine surprise at how well the car drives. The steering is heavy, the clutch demands effort and the drum brakes require considerable anticipation, yet the engine's responsiveness, the surprisingly compliant suspension and that unmistakable straight-six soundtrack leave him thoroughly impressed. He also discovers an intriguing connection to later Aston Martins: the unusual counter-clockwise rev counter, a feature that would eventually become familiar to owners of models such as the DB9 and Vantage.
The public reaction has been equally enthusiastic. Viewers have praised the car's originality, character and history, but perhaps the strongest appreciation has been reserved for Nigel himself. Several commenters celebrate the fact that he continues to drive and compete in such a valuable piece of Aston Martin heritage, rather than preserving it exclusively for shows and exhibitions.
Others have shared personal memories of early DB models, including one viewer whose father owned a DB2 associated with Aston Martin's Le Mans racing history. Another described how the film had given them a newfound appreciation for a car they had previously known little about. It's a lovely reminder of how sharing these machines, whether on the road or through films like this, can introduce an entirely new audience to Aston Martin's past.
For us at Fuel the Passion, there's an additional reason this particular film caught our attention. The DB2/4 laid the foundations for the DB Mark III, the final evolution of this early Aston Martin family and a car that would introduce one of the marque's most enduring design features.
As it happens, that brings us rather neatly to this week's FTP Car of the Week.
Watch the film: The 70 Year Old Aston Martin You've Never Heard Of, But Will NEVER Forget — JayEmm on Cars, published 17th October 2026.
FTP CAR OF THE WEEK
1959 Aston Martin DB Mark III — The Car That Gave Aston Martin Its Face
Image © Fuel the Passion. For illustrative purposes.
£185,000 | Runnymede Motor Company | 1959
Some Aston Martins are remembered for their performance, others for their racing success or appearances on the silver screen. Occasionally, however, a model comes along that changes the identity of the marque itself. Our Car of the Week is one of those machines: a beautifully presented 1959 Aston Martin DB Mark III, advertised by Runnymede Motor Company for £185,000.
Image © Fuel the Passion. For illustrative purposes.
Finished in its original Snow Shadow Grey with a dark blue leather interior, this particular example has a wonderfully understated elegance. Its flowing wings, long bonnet and delicately proportioned cabin belong unmistakably to the 1950s, yet there is something strikingly familiar about its front end. That distinctive grille, inspired by Aston Martin's DB3S racing car, helped establish the visual identity that would become one of the most recognisable signatures in British motoring.
The DB Mark III arrived in March 1957 as the final development of the DB2/4 family. It retained the Claude Hill-designed chassis architecture and the Lagonda-derived straight-six engine, but introduced substantial improvements under the direction of engineer Tadek Marek. The redesigned 2.9-litre engine produced approximately 162 bhp in standard single-exhaust form, rising to 178 bhp with the optional twin-exhaust arrangement. Improvements to the transmission, braking system and cabin helped create a more accomplished grand tourer.
Perhaps its greatest contribution, though, was its appearance. Designer Bert Thickpenny's interpretation of the DB3S grille gave the Mark III a more purposeful, elegant nose, while the redesigned instrument binnacle echoed that distinctive shape. The result was a car that looked ahead to the DB4, DB5 and DB6, establishing a design language that remains recognisable on Aston Martins nearly seven decades later.
Production was limited to approximately 550 examples between 1957 and 1959, making the DB Mark III a relatively uncommon sight today. It also occupies a fascinating place in Aston Martin's cultural history. When Ian Fleming wrote Goldfinger in 1959, James Bond drove an Aston Martin described as a DB III. The considerably more famous DB5 would arrive later, but the Mark III had already earned its place in Bond's literary world.
Image © Fuel the Passion. For illustrative purposes.
Our featured example was built in 1959, the final year of production, and wears a particularly attractive combination of Snow Shadow Grey bodywork, dark blue hide and 72-spoke DB4 wire wheels painted to complement the interior. It is an elegant specification that suits the car's character beautifully, without relying on bright colours or unnecessary embellishment.
According to Runnymede Motor Company, the car has benefited from considerable expenditure over the years, including a complete engine rebuild and detailed work to the bulkhead, supported by photographic records. It is also fitted with overdrive, an especially appealing feature for anyone intending to use the car for longer journeys. The seller reports that it can cruise at 80 mph at approximately 3,000 rpm, suggesting that this is a classic Aston Martin intended to be enjoyed on the open road rather than simply admired in a garage.
Naturally, a car approaching its seventieth birthday deserves careful investigation before purchase. The quality and extent of its restoration, supporting invoices, chassis and engine identification, mechanical condition and any subsequent modifications should all be examined. At £185,000, this is a significant investment, and one that deserves a specialist inspection and a thorough examination of its history. However, the attraction extends beyond its rarity or potential collectability. The DB Mark III represents a fascinating turning point in Aston Martin's development, combining the craftsmanship of the company's early post-war grand tourers with the styling and engineering direction that would define its next generation.
There's something rather special about owning a car that helped establish the face of Aston Martin. Nearly seventy years after leaving the factory, this DB Mark III still looks capable of turning heads wherever it travels.
View the car: 1959 Aston Martin DB Mark III — Runnymede Motor Company
From an Aston Martin that helped shape the marque's identity nearly seventy years ago, we return to the present and a rather exciting weekend for Fuel the Passion. With two new films making their debut and a championship-deciding race unfolding in Barcelona, it's been a particularly memorable few days, both for the channel and for me personally.
FTP UPDATE
From Silverstone to Barcelona — A Special Weekend for Fuel the Passion
Image © Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Blackthorn Racing Aston Martin Vantage GT3 at Barcelona Prologue earlier in 2026.
This week's Fuel the Passion Roundup has been completed a little earlier than usual, and there's a rather exciting reason why.
As you're reading this, I'll be in Barcelona with Blackthorn Racing for the final day of the International GT Open season. Saturday's opening race will already be behind us, and attention will be turning towards Race 2, where the final chapter of the championship will be written.
Image © Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Blackthorn Racing Aston Martin Vantage GT3 at Barcelona Prologue earlier in 2026.
We've spoken about this weekend in recent editions, so I won't repeat all the details here. What I will say is that being there with the team, potentially witnessing Blackthorn Racing secure a major international championship, is an experience I'm enormously excited about.
Following the team throughout the season has given me a growing appreciation of just how much work goes into competing at this level. The hours of preparation, the commitment of the drivers, engineers and mechanics, and the inevitable ups and downs of motorsport all lead towards weekends like this one.
There's something particularly special about the possibility of seeing all that effort rewarded with a championship. Of course, nothing’s guaranteed in racing, and with the final contest still to come as this edition is published, nobody will be taking anything for granted.
On a personal note, it's been a particularly rewarding week for Fuel the Passion.
Seeing the Silverstone films finally reach the Blackthorn Racing YouTube channel has been enormously satisfying. A great deal of work went into producing them, particularly during the editing process, and I'm proud of what we've achieved. More importantly, I'm grateful for the trust Blackthorn Racing has placed in me and the opportunity to tell these stories from inside the team.
It's also made me reflect on how far Fuel the Passion has come. What began as a personal passion for Aston Martin has gradually opened doors to experiences I could scarcely have imagined when I started the channel. Being welcomed into a professional racing team, getting to know the people behind the cars and having the freedom to capture their experiences is something I genuinely appreciate.
Image © Blackthorn Racing. Used for editorial purposes. Blackthorn Racing Aston Martin Vantage GT3 at Barcelona Prologue earlier in 2026.
Barcelona represents another exciting step in that journey. Building on what we learned at Silverstone, I'll be filming throughout the weekend with the intention of producing further behind-the-scenes films for Blackthorn Racing. This time, of course, there's the added prospect of a championship being decided, and I suspect there'll be no shortage of emotions, whatever the outcome.
For now, my attention is firmly on Sunday's race. I'll be doing my best to capture the atmosphere and those moments that tell the real story of a racing weekend, while hoping to witness something that could become a wonderful memory for everyone involved.
Everything crossed for Blackthorn Racing. Let's hope we get to witness something very special.
There's certainly plenty to look forward to at Fuel the Passion!
CLOSING THOUGHTS
There's something I've come to appreciate more and more since starting Fuel the Passion: sometimes the most rewarding part of creating something isn't the finished article or film, but discovering how people respond to it.
Image © Fuel the Passion. AMOC Festival 2026.
Last week, we released our film from the Aston Martin Owners Club Festival at the British Motor Museum, celebrating 25 years of the Vanquish. At the time of writing, it's already attracted more than 5,000 views in just a few days, which has been enormously encouraging. Even more rewarding, however, have been the wonderful comments from viewers who enjoyed revisiting the event, recognised familiar faces or simply appreciated hearing the stories behind some extraordinary cars.
One comment described the film as a lovely reminder of a great day, while another viewer recognised his own Vanquish among the cars we'd filmed. Someone even took the time to write a poem celebrating the Vanquish and Fuel the Passion, which was a rather lovely surprise!
What I find especially rewarding is that these films can mean different things to different people. For someone who attended, they might bring back memories of a wonderful occasion. For an owner, they might offer the pleasure of seeing their car and sharing their enthusiasm with a wider audience. For somebody who has never owned an Aston Martin, perhaps they'll provide a glimpse into a world they've always wanted to explore.
Image © Fuel the Passion. AMOC Festival 2026. FTP speaking to Mike, whose lovely Vanquish Volante won best in show. Interview on the FTP video, link below.
It also reminds me why I enjoy spending time talking to owners and enthusiasts. The cars are extraordinary, of course, but it's often the unexpected conversations, personal histories and shared experiences that stay with me long after I've put the cameras away.
If you haven't yet watched our Festival film, I'd love you to take a look. Alongside a remarkable gathering of first- and second-generation Vanquishes, there's a fascinating conversation with former Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez, together with some wonderful stories from the owners themselves. You'll find the link below.
Watch our latest film: Aston Martin Owners Club Festival 2026 | Dr Ulrich Bez & 25 Years of Vanquish
All of this brings me back to something quite simple: I do Fuel the Passion because I love Aston Martin, I love motorsport, and I love sharing those passions with other people.
Whether it's meeting owners at a gathering, exploring the history of a remarkable car or spending a weekend inside a racing team, I feel incredibly fortunate to have these opportunities. But the enjoyment doesn't end when I put the cameras away or return home. A huge part of it comes from being able to share what I've seen, the people I've met and the stories I've discovered with everyone who follows Fuel the Passion.
I appreciate that not everyone can attend these events or experience the places I'm fortunate enough to visit. That's one of the reasons I enjoy taking you along through the films and articles. I hope they offer something of the atmosphere, excitement and personal connections that make these experiences so enjoyable, whether you're a lifelong Aston Martin enthusiast, a motorsport follower or simply someone who enjoys a good story.
As this edition reaches you, I'll be in Barcelona with Blackthorn Racing, hopefully capturing another memorable chapter. I have no idea quite how the weekend will unfold, and that's part of the excitement. Whatever happens on the circuit, I'll be looking for those moments that bring the experience to life, and I'm looking forward to sharing them with you.
The wonderful response to our Festival film, together with the encouragement I've received for our other work, reminds me that there's an audience who genuinely enjoys these stories. That's enormously motivating. Thank you to everyone who watches, reads, comments and contributes to Fuel the Passion. Your encouragement is enormously appreciated, and I hope you'll continue sharing your own experiences and opinions with us.💚💛
Enjoy the rest of your Sunday, and I'll see you on the next one!🙏
Kind regards,
Dan
Fuel the Passion — Where Every Drive Tells a Story.
3 Questions From This Week
We'd love to hear your thoughts. Answer any of the questions above, or share something else that's caught your attention in Issue 47. Whether you have an opinion on the future sound of Aston Martin, are following Blackthorn Racing's championship battle in Barcelona, or have enjoyed our latest Festival film, your perspective is always welcome.
