Honda sets 'difficult' target for winning F1 world title with Aston Martin in 2026

Honda laid out its targets after discussions with Lawrence Stroll and Toshirio Mibe (Honda’s CEO and president). However, the authorities were aware of the fact that this feat wasn’t very easy for the constructor. Additionally, Watanabe asserted that the engine manufacturer was currently missing something. Hence, both parties had to be open with each other in terms of communicating the issues and tackling what was missing.

So, that's why together with Stroll and Toshihiro Mibe [Honda CEO and president], we set the target to just aim for the world championship in that year. In reality, it is not so easy. Probably we're missing something [right now], but we have to tell each other what is missing. Koji Watanabe mentioned.

Koji Watanabe revealed the factor that made Aston Martin stand out from other constructors

Koji Watanabe revealed that multiple teams had approached the Japanese engine manufacturer to secure a deal from 2026 onwards. However, Aston Martin caught Honda’s eye much differently from other teams. Watanabe explained that Honda was very impressed by Stroll’s strong passion and leadership to fight for the world championship.

After we registered as a power unit supplier for 2026 some other teams contacted us as they were interested in working with Honda. Then we talked to those parties and made a decision, Honda was very impressed with Mr Stroll's strong passion and his strong leadership to fight for the world championship in 2026. Koji Watanabe noted.

However, Aston Martin’s brand new state-of-the-art factory at Silverstone was one of the major reasons for Honda’s interest. Watanabe mentioned that the authorities visited the factory and were impressed by it. Hence, Honda decided to finalize a deal with Aston Martin after meeting with Mike Krack and Martin Whitmarsh.

They invest a lot of money to establish the factory in Silverstone. We visited them to see the factory that was under construction. Several times we have meetings with Martin Whitmarsh and Mike Krack, so the management team. Koji Watanabe explained.

Hence, Aston Martin’s current form, added to Honda’s reliability would produce great results for the team. Silverstone is currently in a tight battle with Mercedes for the fifth spot in the constructors’ championship. The team just needs to keep up with the development and ensure that a situation like the previous season doesn’t arise again.