Honda Racing has officially announced a leadership change in its Formula 1 Power Unit (PU) development programme, a strategic move made ahead of major regulatory changes in 2027. Honda, returning to F1 this season with Aston Martin, hopes this transition will accelerate the development of their PU, which initially lagged in performance.
Since their return, Honda has faced significant challenges. The PU they supply to Aston Martin suffered a performance deficit compared to competitors. However, the technical team's hard work has paid off. They introduced an ADUO-assisted upgrade, and since then, the Silverstone-based team's performance has improved significantly from its pre-season baseline.
The leadership change will take effect in October this year. Yoichiro Fukao, currently deputy leader of the F1 project and head of the software division, will assume the role of large project leader. He will succeed Tetsushi Kakuda, who has led PU development to date.
This move is part of Honda's effort to build a more robust and competitive development framework. With new regulations introduced in 2026 and further changes expected from 2027 onwards, Honda wants to ensure they are not left behind in the technology race. An early transition to the new structure is expected to give them valuable time to adapt.
This decision also reflects Honda's ambition to return to the top echelons of F1. After previously withdrawing as an engine supplier, they are now determined to prove that their PU project can compete. With Fukao, who has a strong background in software, at the helm, Honda seems keen to integrate a more modern and adaptive technological approach.
For Aston Martin, stability and Honda's progress are key. The Silverstone-based team has shown improvement but still needs consistency to challenge at the front. This change is expected not to disrupt momentum but to accelerate the development curve.
With this step, Honda sends a clear signal that they are serious about facing the new F1 era. Championship contention is not just about drivers and chassis, but also about who is best prepared for evolving technical regulations. And Honda, at least on paper, does not want to be left behind.
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