Honda has significantly changed its approach to the future of Formula 1 power units. After years of strongly supporting electrification as part of its wider automotive strategy, the Japanese manufacturer is now willing to consider alternative solutions for the sport’s future, including the possibility of a return to V8 engines.
The shift was confirmed by HRC president Koji Watanabe, who emphasized that maintaining Formula 1’s appeal for fans is now the priority, while also stressing the importance of working alongside the FIA and other stakeholders to shape the sport’s next generation of regulations.
Back in 2020, Honda announced its departure from Formula 1 at the end of the 2021 season in order to focus entirely on electric mobility. However, Max Verstappen’s world championship triumph with Red Bull in 2021 ensured the Japanese brand maintained a strong connection to the category, even during the period of frozen power unit development.
The introduction of the 2026 regulations ultimately became the key factor behind Honda’s official return. In May 2023, the manufacturer confirmed its commitment to Formula 1 as Aston Martin’s engine supplier, attracted by the new generation of hybrid power units. That decision helped bring the number of power unit manufacturers on the grid to five.
Until recently, Honda’s position had been extremely clear. In July 2025, the company strongly opposed any proposal to move away from electrification, even suggesting that it would not remain in Formula 1 without a significant electrical component. Just eleven months later, however, Watanabe’s comments reveal a notable change in direction, with greater emphasis placed on making Formula 1 more attractive to fans rather than adhering to rigid technological principles.
Honda clarifies its position on the 2027 regulation changes
Watanabe firmly rejected suggestions that Honda opposes the regulatory revisions currently being discussed for 2027. Those proposals would increase the importance of the internal combustion engine and introduce a 60/40 power split between combustion and electric power, compared to the current 50/50 balance.
“For us, it is important to ensure that Formula 1 continues to be attractive to fans, so we are open to efforts aimed at improving the current situation. Some information has appeared suggesting that we oppose the 2027 regulation revisions, but that is not true. We respect the FIA’s decisions,” the HRC president explained to SoyMotor.
Honda open to discussions about V8 engines
Honda has also declared itself willing to discuss the possible return of V8 engines, although the FIA has not yet presented a detailed proposal on the matter. Watanabe stressed that Formula 1 must continue to represent the pinnacle of technological innovation, regardless of the number of cylinders used in the internal combustion engine.
“We believe Formula 1 should always be a competition of cutting-edge technologies, regardless of whether the internal combustion engine has 12, 10, 8 or 6 cylinders. Regarding a V8 engine, we have not received any detailed proposal, so we are not in a position to comment on specific aspects, but we are open to discussing it,” he said.
He continued: “We trust that Formula 1 and the FIA will make the right decisions for the sport. We support any progress that improves the racing spectacle for the fans.”
Once a formal proposal is presented, Honda intends to examine the issue carefully before taking a definitive position. Watanabe concluded by highlighting the unique value Formula 1 offers as a technological challenge.
“Responding to rapid changes and unpredictable circumstances is part of the essence of Formula 1, and that is exactly what makes the challenge worth taking. Developing our technology in such an environment has always been Honda’s approach since the company was founded, and that is where we see the value of competing in Formula 1.”
Honda has therefore reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Formula 1 while embracing a more flexible approach, centred on continuous innovation and the shared objective of making racing more exciting and engaging for fans around the world.
Leave a Reply