Verstappen sees Honda leave with pain in heart: 'Always remain a fan'

Formula 1 are present at the Suzuka circuit, which hosts the Japanese Grand Prix this weekend. Max Verstappen has fond memories of the track, where he himself won his second world title and where Red Bull Racing secured the constructors' title last year. That it is on Honda's home GP makes it all the more special.

"For me, being here in Japan is always very nice," Verstappen said ahead of the F1 weekend in Japan. "Did a bit of skiing as well. I've been around already for a couple of days. It's always good to be back here. Actually, I think I enjoyed even more around this time of the year, early on in the year. When you're travelling quite far, Australia, and then when you can go straight to Japan, I think it works out quite well.."

Verstappen praises cooperation with Honda

The Japan GP is special for Red Bull, particularly because of its collaboration with engine supplier Honda. Asked about his personal highlights with Honda, Verstappen replied, "I guess winning races and championships together that for sure is my highlight with Honda and just being able to work with their with their people, you know. Yeah, a lot of yeah great things that we have done already and things to come.."

The three-time world champion is sorry to see the partnership with Honda end in 2026, but says he only has fond memories of it. "The relationship has always been really, really good. And of course, you know, moments that you never forget. For me, like the first podium already, to see the happiness in everyone's faces, you know, after, you know, a few difficult years for me that was really special to witness," Verstappen explained.

Verstappen: 'I will always be a Honda fan'

"And then, of course, the first win. Yeah, it's just all these moments that you have lived through and, you know, the championship, you know, Yeah, I will always remember them. And also, you know, the very bright people that you're working with as well. And also, like Pierre said before, you know, their culture. You have a lot of respect for how they approach things. And yeah, it's been really, really nice to be able to work with them," the Dutchman added.

"Of course, at one point, our relationship will end in terms of working with the team but that doesn't mean that you know that's that. I  mean, there's a lot more to it and for sure for me I'll always be a big Honda fan but yeah, let's see, a lot of great memories. and yeah apart from the other engine manufacturers I mean they're all great in their own way. but of course naturally I think I've had a bit more history now with with Honda," Verstappen concluded.