National Post (National Edition)

ASTON MARTIN GOES 007 FOR F1 LAUNCH

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James Bond said he was thrilled and seven-times Super Bowl champion Tom Brady threw in support from afar as Aston Martin showed off its first Formula One car in 61 years on Wednesday.

The launch, presented online by Quantum of Solace actress Gemma Arterton, played up the 108-year-old marque's connection to the fictional British secret agent as the Silverston­e-based team started a new era.

“I just want to send a massive congratula­tions to all at Aston Martin for getting back onto the F1 grid for the first time since 1960,” Bond actor Daniel Craig said in a video message.

“It is an incredible thrill for me, and I'm sure all F1 fans, to see Aston Martin racing again in their iconic Aston Martin Racing Green. “Go take it to them. I'll see you on the grid.”

The new James Bond film No Time to Die, due for release in September, features four Aston Martins — the agent's car of choice.

Four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel, freshly arrived from Ferrari, and Canadian Lance Stroll will be the ones with the licence to thrill and both liked the look of the sleek green AMR21 car that marks Aston's return as a constructo­r.

Lawrence Stroll, team owner and father of Lance, is also the executive chairman of Aston Martin and has big plans for expanding the brand and taking his team to the top.

“My first dream was to own a Formula One team. My second dream was to acquire a significan­t shareholdi­ng in Aston Martin Lagonda.”

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