To say it is not the Suzuka homecoming Honda would have envisaged would be one V6 engine-sized understatement. Teaming up with Aston Martin as its new power unit provider this season, the Japanese automotive giant has endured a horrid, reputation-damaging start to the 2026 Formula One campaign. And the blame game has already started.
There were whispers at the start of the year that Honda was some way behind in its engine development. To a point, concerns were pushed to one side after a unique “engine provider” season launch on 20 January in Tokyo. The big bosses all stood side by side, suited and booted, and gave the usual platitudes of potential and performance.
