P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Honda has admitted that its new F1 power unit may struggle for pace in 2026 ahead of its much anticipated return to the sport with Aston Martin.
Honda has acknowledged that its new Formula 1 power unit may face challenges in pace for the 2026 season as the company prepares for its return to the sport alongside Aston Martin. Despite anticipating a struggle, Honda officially announced its partnership with Aston Martin as the works engine manufacturer for their next chapter in F1. The launch of their power unit in Tokyo has raised concerns about repeating a difficult period in Honda’s history, notably their turbulent partnership with McLaren in 2015. President of Honda Racing Corporation, Koji Watanabe, expressed determination to compete and win, although he admitted that the 2026 regulations pose significant technical challenges. Honda’s F1 project leader, Tetsushi Kakuda, highlighted potential issues with the internal combustion engine but emphasized the team’s efforts in development as they aim to be competitive and eventually vie for championships in the long term.
