Honda sets January 2026 launch for Aston Martin F1 power unit

Honda will officially reveal its new Formula 1 power unit on January 20, 2026, at a special event in Tokyo, marking its full factory return to the sport with the Aston Martin team. The launch signals the start of a critical new partnership as both entities aim to challenge for the world championship under the radically different 2026 technical regulations.

Why it matters:

Honda's formal return as a works supplier, after its successful but ultimately withdrawn partnership with Red Bull, represents a major shift in the F1 power unit landscape. For Aston Martin, securing a full-factory engine partnership is the final piece of its ambitious transformation under Lawrence Stroll, complementing the signings of Adrian Newey and massive infrastructure investment at Silverstone.

The details:

• The launch event in Tokyo will feature Honda Motor Company President and CEO Toshihiro Mibe, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, and Aston Martin Executive Chairman Lawrence Stroll.
• This marks Honda's first official works partnership since ending its formal ties with Red Bull at the close of 2021, though it continued providing technical support to Red Bull Powertrains through 2025.
• Unlike its problematic re-entry with McLaren for the 2015 season, Honda has not missed a development cycle for the 2026 rules, giving it a cleaner start with Aston Martin.
• The 2026 power unit regulations represent the most significant change since 2014, featuring a major shift towards electrical energy and sustainable fuels.

By the numbers:

• 350kW: The maximum electrical energy output from the MGU-K in 2026, a nearly threefold increase from the current 120kW limit.
• 0: The number of MGU-H units, as the complex heat energy recovery system is eliminated from the 2026 formula.
• 100%: The mandated use of advanced, fully sustainable synthetic fuels from 2026 onward.

What's next:

The Tokyo unveiling will provide the first concrete look at Honda's interpretation of the 2026 rules. All eyes will be on whether the new power unit can deliver the performance and reliability needed to propel Aston Martin into consistent championship contention from the start of the new regulatory era, fulfilling the long-term vision set by Lawrence Stroll's investment drive.