Honda joins Mercedes and Red Bull Ford in supporting 60/40 power split for 2027

Honda has thrown its weight behind the proposed adjustment to Formula 1’s power unit distribution, moving the 60/40 split for 2027 a step closer. The Japanese manufacturer joins Mercedes and Red Bull Ford in supporting the change, which aims to reduce the need for drivers to lift and coast, improving racing.

Why it matters:

The shift from the current 50/50 split to 60% internal combustion engine and 40% electric has been a key demand from drivers like Max Verstappen, who have criticized the current regulations for forcing excessive energy management. With Honda now on board, only two more manufacturers are needed to secure the supermajority required to implement the change for the 2027 season instead of 2028.

The details:

• The FIA and manufacturers had initially agreed in principle to move to 60/40 for 2027, but no definitive deal was reached during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend.
• Ferrari and Audi have pushed for a delay until 2028, citing various reasons.
• Honda’s position: GPblog can confirm that Honda is not opposed to the adjustment, adding its name to the list of supporters alongside Mercedes and Red Bull Ford.
  • Earlier in Montreal, Honda trackside general manager Shintaro Orihara had been non-committal, saying the company was “listening to the FIA decision.”
  • Now, behind-the-scenes discussions indicate Honda is on board.
• Supermajority needed: To push the change through for 2027, five of the six manufacturers (including Cadillac) must approve, together with the FIA and FOM.
  • With Mercedes, Red Bull Ford, and Honda in favor, three remain: Ferrari, Audi, and Cadillac. If two of those three support the change, it will pass.

What's next:

The clock is ticking for the 2027 target. Further negotiations will determine whether Ferrari and Audi can be swayed, or if Cadillac will break the tie. If a supermajority cannot be reached, the change could be delayed to 2028 as Ferrari and Audi prefer. However, with momentum building, the 60/40 split for 2027 is now within reach.