Honda has announced it will delay the FIA homologation process until just before the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season. The Japanese manufacturer aims to continue developing its power unit until the last possible moment to ensure maximum competitiveness upon its return as an official engine supplier. With the introduction of new regulations, Honda will enter into an exclusive partnership with the Aston Martin team.
From 2026, the regulations in Formula 1 will change significantly. According to some experts, these are some of the most drastic changes in the history of the sport. Not only will the chassis need to undergo drastic changes, but the powertrain will also receive a completely new design. The 1.6-liter V6 turbo engines will remain, but they will be less powerful. The power will be evenly distributed between the combustion engine and an electric power source, resulting in improved hybrid propulsion.
These changes coincide with Honda’s return as an official manufacturer. Although Honda still provides support to Red Bull Powertrains, the engine supplier for Max Verstappen‘s team, it has chosen to enter into a new partnership with Aston Martin from 2026. The Japanese company decided relatively late to re-enter the premier class, necessitating additional time to build a new technological base. After all, many engineers had already moved to Red Bull.
‘End of February’
According to Tetsushi Kakuda, head of the Formula 1 project within Honda’s motorsport division, the company has reached an advanced stage in the development of the new engine. “We aim to submit the power unit for homologation in February,” Kakuda said. “Since we started a bit later, we want to continue development until the very last moment.” If the Formula 1 season of 2026 starts in March, Honda can’t really wait any longer. Of course, certain physical components must be determined in time, so they align with Aston Martin’s design.
“We are coordinating with them about the final decision moments and adjust the development schedule accordingly,” Kakuda explained. “For a petrol engine, the eternal goal remains to burn fuel as quickly and efficiently as possible. At the moment, we are trying to optimize that process.” Honda has now established a new base in Milton Keynes, in the former headquarters of Honda-Red Bull.
