Honda will continue to support Yuki Tsunoda in F1, even after their Red Bull deal ends and their Aston Martin partnership begins.
Yuki Tsunoda is increasingly mentioned in driver market discussions. The Japanese driver is enjoying a strong start to 2024, both relative to teammate Daniel Ricciardo and in absolute terms. After fending off three teammates last season, Tsunoda is once again establishing himself at the Faenza-based team. In this context, he is linked with a move elsewhere – especially as Red Bull seems reluctant to promote him. Aston Martin is among the teams seen as a future destination.
Aston Martin’s ambitious plans
In two years, Honda will power Aston Martin. This agreement is significant for Lawrence Stroll’s team, whose exclusive agreement with the engine supplier gives them control of their own destiny.
Rather than reacting to the Mercedes engines and specifications, the British outfit will determine all aspects of development. For a team that often mentions F1 Championships as an aspiration, this level of autonomy is important.
The Lance Stroll question
However, there are suggestions that Honda’s influence will go beyond on-track performance. A few weeks ago, the head of Honda Racing Corporation (Koji Watanabe) explained the importance of being transparent with Aston Martin. He outlined that both parties must openly communicate what they are “missing” to succeed in the sport.
For some, this was interpreted as an indication that Honda might push for Aston to replace Lance Stroll. Whilst this is purely a subjective inference, it seems reasonable the Japanese manufacturer will have an influence on Aston’s driver pairing.
Team principal Mike Krack has already confirmed that he discussed Fernando Alonso’s multi-year deal with Honda beforehand.
Honda want Tsunoda to succeed in F1
In a recent interview with motorsport.com, Watanabe spoke directly about Yuki Tsunoda. He was very open about Honda’s continued support of the 23-year-old:
“Even if it’s after we’re gone [from Red Bull], we would like to keep a close eye on him rising to the top teams.
“Tsunoda has graduated from the Honda Racing school… So, it’s really important that Yuki becomes a top driver in Formula 1.”
Still, this support for Tsunoda may not be enough. After all, whilst Lawrence Stroll owns the team, Lance Stroll seems likely to have an essentially guaranteed seat.
If Aston Martin were no longer planning on retaining Stroll, team principal Mike Krack is unlikely to have shown such commitment to defending the Canadian in recent weeks.
Regardless, all eyes are on Aston Martin and Honda and their long-term decision on who will partner the Double World Champion.
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