P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Honda has ended its association with Max Verstappen and Red Bull as it has shifted its allegiance to Aston Martin.
Honda president Koji Watanabe acknowledged a somber mood within the team after the 2021 season finale in Abu Dhabi, marking the end of the Red Bull and Honda partnership in F1. Despite officially leaving F1, Honda continued to support Red Bull technically during Max Verstappen’s championship-winning years. The company will return next year, supplying power units to Aston Martin under new technical regulations. Watanabe praised Verstappen for his collaboration with Honda and his dedication to reaching the top. The end of the partnership with Verstappen brought mixed emotions, as it closed a significant chapter while heralding new beginnings. Verstappen’s popularity in Japan, akin to Ayrton Senna’s legacy, solidified his place in Honda’s history with his motivating attitude and trust in the team.
