Abishek D Praphullalumar
Honda has confirmed that it will push its 2026 Formula 1 engine development until the “very last moment” as it prepares for a full-time return with Aston Martin. Having previously supported Red Bull after its 2021 withdrawal, Honda’s late decision to re-enter F1 independently means it must maximize development time to stay competitive under the new engine regulations.
Tetushi Kakuda, head of Honda Racing Corporation’s F1 project, revealed that the homologation deadline is set for February 2025, and the team will work relentlessly to fine-tune its V6 turbo-hybrid engine. The 2026 regulations aim for a 50-50 power split between the internal combustion engine and electric systems, a challenge that Honda is tackling with new fuel combustion and efficiency strategies.
Development is taking place at Honda’s Sakura and California bases, with UK operations in Milton Keynes set to take over maintenance and race support. The project will also benefit from the expertise of Adrian Newey, who recently joined Aston Martin as Managing Technical Partner following his departure from Red Bull.
