F1 News & Gossip

F1 boss reveals priorities ahead of F1 2026 entry

The motoring giant are making their return to the sport in 2026

Sam Cook Digital Journalist

Sports Journalist who has been covering motorsport since 2023

Thursday 25 January 2024 00:57

Honda Racing president Koji Watanabe has admitted that the Japanese manufacturer has no intention of putting an entry in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with all of their focus instead on their Formula 1 return.

The former Red Bull engine supplier will be making a return to the sport in 2026 when F1 regulations regarding engines change, with a shake-up of the grid expected.

Heading into the new era of F1 in 2026, Honda will instead produce power units for the ever-improving Aston Martin team, something that Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has expressed regret about.

They will power the team in the first few years at least of the sweeping new regulations that are coming into F1, designed to improve racing and minimise the impact that the sport has on the environment.

Honda have most recently been in F1 with the world champion Red Bull Racing team

Honda and Red Bull have enjoyed much success together, including winning the 2021 drivers' world championship

Honda Racing will power the Aston Martin team from 2026

Honda's 2026 F1 entry

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Now, Watanabe has revealed the priorities for Honda Racing, with their IndyCar involvement also taking up a lot of their resources.

The last time Honda took any part in the 24 Hours of Le Mans race was back in 2013, with the Strakka Racing team.

"I'm not saying it won't happen forever, but it's a matter of priorities," Watanabe told Tokyo Auto Salon via Autosport.

“The F1 business will be added to that, and since a few members of the US team will be involved in the F1 project, we will not consider [a Le Mans entry] until things have settled down there.”

Red Bull Formula 1 Aston Martin 24 Hours of Le Mans