Honda to Host Unusual 2026 F1 Engine 'Launch' Event in January

Honda will stage a unique event in Tokyo on January 20 to reveal its 2026 Formula 1 power unit, offering what will likely be the first public look at an engine built to the sport's next-generation regulations. The event, featuring Honda's CEO and Aston Martin's Lawrence Stroll, underscores the increased manufacturer focus on the new hybrid era, where the power units themselves are becoming a central promotional story.

Why it matters:

Engine launches are rare in modern F1, where car reveals dominate the pre-season. Honda's dedicated event signals a strategic shift to highlight the 2026 power unit's status as a major technological milestone. With a near-50/50 split between electrical and internal combustion power, F1 and its manufacturers are keen to showcase these engines as impressive, sustainable achievements to a global audience.

The details:

• The event is scheduled for January 20 in Tokyo, three weeks before the Aston Martin team's 2026 car launch in Saudi Arabia on February 9.
• It will feature speeches from Honda President Toshihiro Mibe, Aston Martin F1 Chairman Lawrence Stroll, and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
• The presentation aims to "reveal" the physical engine, explain the new 2026 regulations, and outline Honda's aspirations for its works partnership with Aston Martin.
• This follows Honda's recent release of an audio clip of the 2026 engine's sound, making it the first manufacturer to do so.
• The event will be livestreamed on YouTube in both English and Japanese, ensuring broad accessibility for fans.

The big picture:

Honda's official 'return' as a full works supplier with Aston Martin in 2026 comes after a period of reduced involvement as an engine supplier to Red Bull. The new regulations, which eliminate the complex MGU-H and significantly boost the energy recovery system, have attracted Honda back into a competitive manufacturer field that includes Mercedes, Ferrari, the new Red Bull Ford Powertrains, and newcomer Audi. This launch is a clear statement of intent from Honda to be a leader in the new era.

What's next:

The Tokyo event will provide the first proper images and an up-close examination of a 2026-spec F1 power unit, offering a rare glimpse into the core technology that will define the next chapter of the sport. Its success and reception will set the tone for Honda and Aston Martin's ambitious partnership as they prepare to take on established giants and ambitious newcomers from the 2026 season onward.