In 2026, Formula 1 will introduce a new set of regulations for power units and aerodynamics. As a result, Honda will become the official partner of Aston Martin, ending their collaboration with Red Bull Racing, which began in 2019.
Honda’s return to Formula 1 in 2015 with McLaren was disastrous. However, they made an impressive comeback and achieved success with Red Bull in 2021, when Max Verstappen won the Drivers’ Championship.
Since then, Honda has enjoyed a continuous streak of victories with Red Bull, claiming consecutive F1 titles in 2022 and 2023. It seems that 2024 is also heading in a similar direction.
This impressive streak has filled Honda with confidence. Koji Watanabe, Honda’s motorsport chief, emphasized that their goal for 2026 with Aston Martin is nothing less than the Championship. Speaking to Motorsport.com, Watanabe stated: “We understand it will be extremely challenging and not so simple, but we need ambitious goals to give our best effort alongside Aston Martin. Therefore, together with [Lawrence] Stroll and Toshihiro Mibe [CEO and President of Honda], we have set the goal of winning the world championship that year. In reality, it won’t be easy.”
Watanabe acknowledged that both Honda and Aston Martin may be lacking certain elements for success. However, he insisted that they would collaborate to identify what they need to succeed. “There may be something missing [at the moment], but we need to communicate and determine what is missing on both the Honda and Aston Martin sides. It is an honest conversation that will allow us to become a top team together,” Watanabe added.
The CEO of Aston Martin, Lawrence Stroll, made a wise decision in partnering with Honda to elevate the team to title contention. But how did he manage to persuade Honda?
Watanabe explained: “After registering as a power unit supplier for 2026, some other teams approached us, expressing interest in working with Honda. We engaged in discussions with these parties and made a decision. Honda was very impressed with Mr. Stroll’s immense passion and strong leadership in pursuing the world championship in 2026. They invested a significant amount of money to establish the factory in Silverstone. We visited them to witness the construction of the factory. We had several meetings with Martin Whitmarsh and Mike Krack, the management team. They are very transparent, and the whole team is united in their goals. This is a very positive image for us. At the same time, they believe that Honda is an ideal partner for them to become world champions. We have already formed a technical working team and a steering committee to discuss important matters that we can potentially improve,” Watanabe concluded.
Aston Martin recently extended Fernando Alonso’s contract, ensuring that the Spanish driver will be at the forefront of the Honda/Aston Martin partnership on the track in 2026.
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Soccer star Lionel Messi signs a contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after leaving Barcelona. The Argentine player, considered one of the best in the world, made a huge impact on the football world with this surprising transfer. Messi, who spent his entire career at Barcelona, will now have the opportunity to play alongside stars like Neymar and Mbappé.
The news of Messi’s signing with PSG has shaken the football world. Barcelona fans were shocked to see their idol leave the club after so many years of dedication. On the other hand, PSG fans are excited about the arrival of the talented player. The expectation is that Messi will bring even more success to the French club.
With this transfer, PSG becomes one of the strongest and most feared teams in the world. The team was already known for its quality and now, with the addition of Messi, it becomes even stronger. Opponents will certainly have difficulties facing a team with so many skilled players.
Furthermore, Messi’s transfer to PSG also brings commercial benefits. The French club’s jersey with the player’s name and number is already being sold in large quantities. Sponsors are also excited about the opportunity to have Messi representing their brands.
However, not everyone is happy with this transfer. Some critics argue that Messi should have ended his career at Barcelona, where he became an icon of the club. Others believe that he is simply following the money trail, choosing to play for a club that can offer a higher salary.
Regardless of the opinions, it is undeniable that Messi’s transfer to PSG is a milestone in football history. Fans are eager to see what the Argentine player will be able to do at the new club and how he will adapt to a new environment. Certainly, many eyes will be on PSG this season.
