A major leadership transition is underway within the racing division of the Japanese manufacturer after an official announcement confirmed that Koji Watanabe will step down from his role. The longtime head of the brand's racing activities is scheduled to retire early next year, specifically on January 1, marking the conclusion of a significant era defined by massive operational transformations and strategic shifts in international motorsport.
Having taken charge of the racing division in 2022, Koji Watanabe played a pivotal role in unifying both four-wheel and two-wheel motorsport activities under a single corporate umbrella. Furthermore, he oversaw the strategic U-turn regarding the brand's premier single-seater racing involvement, paving the way for a triumphant return as an official works power unit partner for Aston Martin under the upcoming 2026 technical regulations, demanding immense engineering dedication.
To succeed him, the company has appointed Keiichi Yasuda to take over the mantle as the new CEO. Prior to this appointment, Keiichi Yasuda served as the Executive Vice President and Representative Director, bringing valuable management experience from leading overseas local entities and a solid background in human resources within the racing division.
"This executive change is part of a planned periodic personnel rotation designed to strengthen the management structure in response to global transformation and to accelerate business expansion for the next generation," the official corporate statement noted. This strategic realignment aims to maintain competitive sharpness and organizational agility across the diverse global racing programs.
Reflecting on his tenure, the outgoing president expressed deep gratitude for his journey at the helm. "It is my honour serving as a president of HRC with the wonderful colleagues," stated Koji Watanabe, adding that he remains fully committed to pushing for victory until his final days in office. Meanwhile, his successor outlined his primary objectives for the future.
"I consider it my mission to firmly inherit the solid foundation built by Watanabe," said Keiichi Yasuda. He emphasized his dedication to uniting everyone's vector toward the singular goal of winning races, leveraging his management background to invest in personnel and build an even more formidable racing organization moving forward.
Read Also
Honda Racing Corporation umumkan perubahan manajemen jelang 2027. Keiichi Yasuda gantikan Koji Watanabe sebagai Presiden dan CEO HRC.
Koji Watanabe akan digantikan oleh Keiichi Yasuda sebagai bos Honda Racing Corporation mulai 1 Januari jelang era regulasi F1 berikutnya.
Koji Watanabe pensiun sebagai Presiden dan CEO HRC pada akhir tahun, posisinya akan digantikan oleh Keiichi Yasuda mulai 1 Januari mendatang.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!