Honda's Final F1 Season with Red Bull: Looking Ahead to 2026 with Aston Martin

Honda marks 60 years since its first F1 victory as it concludes its partnership with Red Bull in 2025. The company prepares for new challenges with Aston Martin under 2026 regulations. Read more.

The 2025 season marks a pivotal moment for Honda in Formula 1. Not only does the company celebrate the 60th anniversary of its first Grand Prix victory, but it also prepares to part ways with Red Bull and embark on a new chapter with Aston Martin in 2026.

This year signifies the final stage of Honda’s partnership with Red Bull, a collaboration that began in 2018 and yielded remarkable results. From the first victory at the 2019 Austrian Grand Prix to dominant performances in 2023—winning 21 out of 22 races—Honda has left an indelible mark on the championship.

However, the future holds even greater challenges. The 2026 regulations will bring a seismic shift to Formula 1, with hybrid powertrains taking center stage. The power balance between the combustion engine and the electric motor will shift to nearly 50/50, while the sport transitions to 100% carbon-neutral fuel. These changes align with Honda’s long-term sustainability goals and commitment to cutting-edge engineering.

To support its ambitions, Honda established HRC UK in Milton Keynes in 2024. This facility will play a crucial role in developing power units and ensuring seamless integration with Aston Martin’s chassis. This partnership is not just about supplying engines—it’s a strategic move to actively contribute to building a competitive car.

Formula 1’s global popularity continues to surge, especially in North America, where the audience is becoming increasingly younger. With the sport generating $3.2 billion in revenue in 2023 (a 25% year-on-year increase), Honda sees F1 as more than just a racing battleground—it’s a powerful branding tool in key markets.

In Japan, the landscape is different. While the Japanese Grand Prix has seen growing attendance, the domestic audience remains older than the global average. In response, Honda is organizing events like the F1 TOKYO FAN FESTIVAL, blending culture, entertainment, and interactive experiences to engage a new generation of fans.

Honda is also exploring the launch of a memorabilia business, allowing fans to own pieces of F1 history. One of the first items planned for sale is the RA100E V10 engine from Ayrton Senna’s McLaren MP4/5B (1990), certified by HRC. This initiative is expected to attract collectors and devoted F1 enthusiasts alike.

For now, the focus is on the 2025 season. Honda aims to conclude its partnership with Red Bull on a high, determined to reclaim the championship title before stepping into a new era with Aston Martin.

Source: hondanews.com