Honda strengthens F1 presence with new UK base
Honda is establishing a new Formula 1 base in the UK to support its works engine partnership with Aston Martin from 2026. The facility will handle post-race maintenance and logistics for Honda's power units, enhancing operations as it returns as a manufacturer under the new engine regulations.
After officially withdrawing from Formula 1 at the end of 2021, Honda is gearing up for a full-fledged return to the sport as a works engine supplier to Aston Martin from 2026.
The Japanese manufacturer's comeback coincides with the advent of new powertrain regulations, which notably include a 50:50 power split between the 1.6-litre turbocharged engine and hybrid system.
New UK facility
To support its partnership with Aston Martin, Honda is opening a dedicated Formula 1 base in the UK under its Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) subsidiary.
Headed by HRC president Koji Watanabe, this new facility will primarily handle post-race maintenance and preparation tasks on Honda's power units (PUs), while also serving as a logistics hub for the European region.
According to an HRC statement,
"The establishment of HRC UK will further enhance the effectiveness of Honda's PU operations, in support of the partnership with Aston Martin [F1] Team."
Enhancing global operations
Beyond the new UK base, Honda's California-based HRC USA division will also contribute to the development of the new power unit.
With the F1 calendar now featuring five North American rounds, HRC USA will embed personnel at Aston Martin as it steps up its involvement in the company's global programs.
Watanabe emphasized the significance of this new corporate structure, stating,
"Until now, our activities have been projects, gathering people and money, disbanding when the project was over, and repeating."
"However, going forward, we will be responsible for the racing company's activities."
Recruitment drive
To support its expanded F1 operations, HRC will commence recruiting engineers, technicians, and PR staff in the spring.
This injection of specialized personnel will bolster Honda's capabilities as it prepares to supply Aston Martin with cutting-edge power units from 2026 onwards.
Sustainable future
Watanabe also highlighted Honda's commitment to future technologies, including
"sustainable carbon-neutral fuels, high-performance motors, batteries, and so on."
This emphasis on innovation aligns with Formula 1's push towards greater sustainability and underscores Honda's determination to remain at the forefront of powertrain development.
As the 2026 season approaches, Honda's strategic investments in new facilities and personnel underscore its ambitions to reassert itself as a formidable force in Formula 1.
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