Honda reveal details around power unit launch ahead of full return to F1

Honda have announced their launch date for the brand new power unit that will be supplied exclusively to Aston Martin from 2026, marking an exciting "new era" for both the team and manufacturer.

The Japanese company have drawn a line under their long-standing partnership with Red Bull, which saw them secure a World Championship with Max Verstappen in 2021 before they gradually stepped back, providing support as the team set up their own in-house power unit division.

In 2023, Honda revealed that they would join forces with Aston Martin to coincide with the changing regulations, and they have now confirmed that the power unit will be unveiled in Tokyo on January 20 2026.

The event, which will be livestreamed to fans on YouTube, will feature talks from Toshihiro Mibe, President and CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman of Aston Martin, and Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1.

In an official statement, Honda said: "This is the Japanese marque’s first power unit under the dramatically reformed regulations which sees 50% internal combustion power and 50% electric power.

"At this event, we will share the aspirations of Honda and Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team as we take on the challenge of competing in F1, the pinnacle of motorsport. We will also explain the new regulations and reveal our new power unit for the upcoming season."

Aston Martin have received power units, the gearbox and rear suspension from Mercedes over recent seasons, but have repeatedly outlined their intention to make the most of the upcoming regulation change and return to fighting at the front. This season, they took P7 in the Teams' Standings, with legendary designer Adrian Newey set to take on the role of Team Principal at the start of next year.

He replaces Andy Cowell, who will transition into Chief Strategy Officer and optimise the crucial technical partnership with Honda to set the team on the right path to becoming a frontrunner.

Honda added: "2026 marks the start of Honda’s new era in F1, having first entered in 1964. Since then, Honda has established itself as one of the most successful power unit manufacturers in the sport’s history."