Honda’s transition to Aston Martin’s engine partner for F1 2026 is a smoother ride, according to Honda Racing president Koji Watanabe. Here’s a look at the major developments.
- Honda plans to partner with Aston Martin in 2026, having previously worked with McLaren and Red Bull.
- Watanabe mentions that previous experience in F1 has prepared Honda better for the transition.
- The collaboration involves Adrian Newey on Aston Martin’s team, known for his expertise in car design.
- Aston Martin’s Andy Cowell highlights Honda’s respectful cooperation with both Red Bull and Aston Martin.
Honda is gearing up for a big leap in Formula 1 by switching alliance from Red Bull to Aston Martin in 2026. Honda Racing president Koji Watanabe is optimistic about this move, citing a ‘smoother development’ journey compared to their earlier re-entry with McLaren in 2015. With a decade of Formula 1 experience under their belt, they’re not starting from scratch this time, which gives them confidence going forward.
Red Bull celebrated their final year with Honda by donning a special white tribute livery at Suzuka. Ahead of the anticipated switch, Honda is already hard at work on their F1 2026 power units. Watanabe noted the transition appears more seamless because, unlike in 2015, the team is not beginning from zero.
An exciting aspect of the new partnership is the involvement of Adrian Newey, who will lead the design of Aston Martin’s 2026 car. Watanabe is thrilled about this collaboration, expressing his ‘honor’ in working with Newey again. The duo aims to create a competitive F1 car to face the upcoming regulation changes.
Another voice of confidence is Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell, who explained Honda’s strategic division of resources between their projects with Red Bull and Aston Martin. Cowell shared how Honda maintains respect towards both teams, ensuring a balanced and focused approach to development.
Cowell also witnessed Honda’s dedication during a visit to their test facility, where areas were visibly demarcated to separate Red Bull and Aston Martin projects. His impression of Honda’s respectful and organized effort bodes well for their future with Aston Martin.
Honda’s transition to partnering with Aston Martin is marked by optimism and strategic collaborations, setting the stage for exciting developments in F1 2026.
