Honda and Aston Martin Aramco Unite for the 2026 Formula 1 Season

Honda has officially launched its power unit (PU) partnership with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team at a dedicated event in Tokyo. Starting from the 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship, the two entities will work in close strategic collaboration to compete at the pinnacle of motorsport. This new era will also mark the track debut of Honda’s refreshed “H” logo.

During the launch ceremony, Honda Global CEO Toshihiro Mibe reflected on the brand’s historic journey in F1, which began in 1964. From its first victory at the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix to the “Golden Era” with Williams and McLaren, and more recently, its championship successes with Red Bull Racing, Honda has consistently embodied the spirit of overcoming the world’s toughest challenges.

Mibe emphasized that the partnership with Aston Martin Aramco is a continuation of founder Soichiro Honda’s vision: “to be number one in the world.”

A Revolutionary Start for the 2026 Season

The 2026 season will introduce radical regulation changes for both chassis and power units. Key updates include:

• Increased Electrical Power: The electrical output from motors and batteries will nearly triple compared to current levels.
• Sustainable Fuels: The use of advanced 100% sustainable fuels will become mandatory.
• The RA626H Power Unit: Developed by Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), this new power unit is designed specifically to meet these innovative requirements and lead the team to the championship.

The New “H” Logo and HRC Synergy

The cars powered by the RA626H unit will proudly display Honda’s newly designed “H” logo, symbolizing the transformation of the brand’s automotive business. Honda aims to transfer the expertise gained by HRC in F1 directly to its production vehicles.

• HRC Specification Models: Honda plans to launch high-performance production models based on HRC specifications, including a model inspired by the Civic Type R HRC Concept.
• Talent Development: Engineers trained in the high-pressure F1 environment will return to production development, bringing world-class innovation to everyday customers.

Global Leadership Perspectives

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, attended the ceremony and highlighted the significance of the alliance:

“The joining of forces between Honda and Aston Martin Aramco is an incredibly exciting moment. With 17 million passionate F1 fans in Japan, Honda’s commitment to the new 2026 technical regulations will further unlock the sport’s potential in this key market.”

Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman of Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team, expressed his pride in the partnership:

“Aston Martin and Honda share many core values that form a strong bond for 2026 and beyond. With our new Technology Center in Silverstone now complete, we are developing a single, integrated package of chassis and power unit. This integration is vital for our championship ambitions.”

Stroll also noted that the team will collaborate with Aramco for sustainable fuels and Valvoline for lubricants for the first time in this configuration.