Japanese manufacturer Honda has publicly acknowledged that the development of the power unit for the 2026 Fórmula 1 season faces obstacles. Koji Watanabe, president of the company’s racing division, gave an interview to the Japanese magazine Sportiva and detailed that not all aspects of the project are progressing as expected. The statement comes at a decisive moment, a few days before the official unveiling of the engine, scheduled for January 20th on Tóquio.
The partnership between Honda and Aston Martin begins in 2026, with the English team adopting Japanese engines for the first time. The automaker returns as an exclusive supplier after ending the technical relationship with the Red Bull at the end of 2025. Expectations are high due to the Honda’s history of success in the category, but the current scenario indicates the need for intense adjustments.
Engineered for a new era of Formula 1.#F1 #POWEREDByHonda pic.twitter.com/yDC7WGMFZ3
—Honda Racing F1 (@HondaRacingF1)January 11, 2026
Statement by the president of Honda
Koji Watanabe was straightforward in assessing the project’s progress. Ele mentioned that there are conflicting reports about the manufacturers’ performance. Algumas sources point to only Mercedes-AMG having an advantage, while others suggest that only Mercedes and Honda are progressing well or that several manufacturers are facing problems.
The executive highlighted that the situation is not irreversible. The technical team focuses its efforts on improving performance and reliability. Watanabe reinforced that no fatal issue compromises the program, allowing for necessary corrections before pre-season testing.
Technical challenges of the new regulation
The 2026 rules introduce profound changes to power units. The MGU-H is removed, and the electrical part gains greater weight, approaching 50% of the total power. Esse balance requires complex adaptations in energy management and recovery.
Press reports indicate that Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains explored interpretations of the regulation. Esses points can generate advantages of around 0s3 per turn. Honda started the project after the decision to return, which caused delays compared to rivals who maintained continuity.
Integration with the Aston Martin project
The English team is betting on Adrian Newey as technical director and team leader. The designer seeks to align the chassis with his established aerodynamic vision. Watanabe commented that the next step involves adapting the power unit to this concept.
Collaboration seeks synergy to increase competitiveness. The declared intention is to win titles in the long term. Lawrence Stroll and Toshihiro Mibe, presidents of Aston Martin and Honda respectively, made a commitment to transform the project into a winning reality.
Structure and resources of the English team
Aston Martin has strengthened its technical structure in recent years. Heavy Investimentos occurred in installations and hiring. Newey combines strategic functions with a focus on aerodynamics, while Andy Cowell assumes strategy responsibilities.
The pilot duo remains with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. The team finished the previous season in seventh place with Mercedes engines. The transition to Honda represents a significant change in the search for front positions.
Long-term perspective of the partnership
Honda has accumulated extensive experience in Fórmula 1. The know-how developed over the years should help in overcoming current obstacles. The project is treated as a lasting commitment between the parties.
Watanabe emphasized hard daily work to achieve a competitive position. The expectation is to deliver a power unit capable of fighting for significant results from 2026 onwards. The mutual adaptation between engine and chassis will be decisive for initial success.
Recent revelations and next steps
Honda released preliminary images and sounds of the power unit. Esses materials generated expectations among fans and experts. The launch event at Tóquio will include representatives from both companies and Fórmula 1.
Aston Martin presents the AMR26 car on February 9th. Preseason Testes occurs in Barcelona and Bahrein. Esses moments will allow for a real assessment of the set made up of chassis and engine.
