Honda step closer to returning to F1: "The targets match"

Honda has applied to the FIA to be an engine manufacturer in Formula 1 from 2026. This reports Motorsport.com. The Japanese brand withdrew from the sport at the end of 2020 but could thus make a return in 2026.

Just two days ago, Red Bull Racing team boss Christian Horner officially announced that Red Bull will make its engine for use in its Formula 1 cars from 2026. Currently, this is already largely done under the name Red Bull Powertrains, but Honda still has a role in producing the engine. This partnership will end in 2025 after which Red Bull will thus take full control, according to Horner.

'We want the same thing'

What this means for Honda is as yet unknown. All options are still on the table, explains Honda Racing boss Yasuharu Watanabe. "As a racing company, we have registered as a manufacturer in order to advance research on racing," Watanabe said. "The F1 regulations from 2026 onwards are moving in the direction of carbon neutrality. In addition, the fact that electrification is also being promoted, and the carbon neutrality and electrification that Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is promoting, is the same. The targets match."

So a definitive return of Honda to Formula 1 is not necessarily guaranteed just yet. In any case, the fact is that with Honda's entry, six companies have now registered to develop engines from 2026: Honda, Mercedes, Ferrari, Renault, Red Bull Powertrains, and Audi. According to rumours, Porsche, Hyundai, Toyota, and Ford also have plans to participate from 2026.