Honda announces big comeback to F1 in partnership with Aston Martin in 2026

Honda announces big comeback to F1 in partnership with Aston Martin in 2026
24 May 2023 by    2 min read
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May 24 - Honda, the Japanese car manufacturer, is preparing for a grand re-entry to Formula 1 in 2026, this time partnering with Aston Martin as the official power unit supplier. This follows Honda's departure from the sport at the close of 2021, concluding a seven-year stint which peaked with a World Championship win with Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing.

Despite their exit, Honda maintained ties with Red Bull via a power unit support deal set to run until the end of 2025. The collaboration proved successful, with both championships in 2022 secured under this partnership.

The unveiling of the new engine regulations for 2026 by Formula 1 has been a major factor in Honda's decision to return. The mandate for the use of 100% sustainable fuels and a pronounced emphasis on electric power aligns well with Honda's corporate objectives.

Red Bull, however, had chosen to embark on a different journey, collaborating with Ford, the American car behemoth, to establish an in-house power unit division. As a result, Honda sought a new partner and found a fitting match in Aston Martin, a team eager to collaborate on a bespoke engine development.

Mercedes, a long-standing partner of the Silverstone-based Aston Martin team since 2009, will continue providing power units, as well as gearbox and rear suspension components, through the end of 2025.

Toshihiro Mibe, CEO of Honda, underscored the company's drive to tackle challenges and succeed in world-class races as a key factor in the decision to rejoin F1. The global premier racing platform's push towards sustainability mirrors Honda's pursuit of carbon neutrality. The company sees F1 as a potential accelerator for the evolution of their electrification technologies.

According to Mibe, the 2026 regulations will place a premium on compact, lightweight, and high-power electric motors equipped with high-performance batteries capable of delivering quick and potent power output. Mastery in energy management technology will also be crucial.

Honda expects the experiences and knowledge gained from this endeavor to potentially find application in their upcoming mass production electric vehicles. This could include an electric flagship sports model, and other electrification technologies in diverse areas, such as eVTOL, currently in R&D.

The Aston Martin F1 Team, now identified as Aston Martin Aramco Honda, shares Honda's earnest ambition and determination to win. From the 2026 season, the two entities will pool their resources, aiming for the Championship title.

In conclusion, Honda's return to Formula 1, in partnership with Aston Martin, promises an exciting future for the sport, aligning its goals with global sustainability efforts and further pushing the boundaries of automotive technology​

Explore the journey leading to Honda's return with these key articles:

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3 F1 Fan comments on “Honda announces big comeback to F1 in partnership with Aston Martin in 2026”

  1. shroppyfly

    Aston Martin Aramco Honda, Hi Sales Team , now this is how we are going to market the road cars, yes, yes I know they've got Merc engines, oh right this is gonna get complicated lol, Well done Mr Stroll for nabbing Honda, Hi yes and these are our drivers, of course you know Mr Alonso from er , er before. I dont think I ever seen a green Honda before

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