Aston Martin Formula 1 has announced that New York Jets owner Woody Johnson has acquired a minority stake in the team, effective immediately.

The American billionaire, who was formerly the US Ambassador to the United Kingdom, has been appointed to Aston Martin's Board of Directors as Vice Chairman. Johnson brings years of experience in the sports industry, having purchased NFL franchise the New York Jets in 2000, and currently holding a 43% stake in Premier League side Crystal Palace.

The announcement was made ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. Aston Martin confirmed that Johnson will not undertake any day-to-day management duties, with those responsibilities remaining firmly with Executive Chairman Lawrence Stroll.

The team currently sits 10th in the constructors' standings but has ambitions of climbing further up the order, bolstered by recent upgrades introduced at the Hungaroring. An updated power unit, developed in partnership with Honda, is also set to debut this weekend — an upgrade both Aston Martin and their Japanese partner are optimistic will improve on-track performance.

Stroll: 'An ideal partner'

Aston Martin Executive Chairman Lawrence Stroll welcomed Johnson's arrival, highlighting the American's commercial acumen and brand appreciation as key assets for the team's next chapter.

"I am extremely happy to welcome Woody to the Aston Martin family," Stroll said. "His experience, passion and investment further strengthen our position as we enter the next phase of our competitive journey. His deep appreciation for our brand, combined with his commitment to innovation and commercial opportunity, makes him an ideal partner as we look to the future."

Johnson eyes US growth and competitive ambition

Johnson, who developed a close affinity for Aston Martin during his tenure as US Ambassador to the UK, pointed to Stroll's strategic vision as a major factor in his decision to invest.

"During my time as US Ambassador to the United Kingdom, I have developed a deep appreciation for Aston Martin's rich history, as well as Stroll's strategic vision and entrepreneurial spirit," Johnson said. "I am excited to partner with him and contribute to the continued development of the team, with the ambition of building an organisation capable of competing at the very highest level of the sport."

He also highlighted a shared commitment to expanding Formula 1's reach in the United States, a market that has seen surging interest in recent years following the success of the Netflix documentary series Drive to Survive and the addition of races in Miami and Las Vegas.

"We also share a commitment to growing the fanbase in the United States and introducing even more fans to the excitement of Formula 1," Johnson added.