The upper echelons of global motorsport management are preparing for a major shift as the Japanese manufacturer officially announced a sweeping structural reorganization. As reported by FormulaPassion, Koji Watanabe—who has served as President and CEO since 2022—will step down from his current duties effective January 1, 2027. This pivotal strategic decision marks a significant new chapter for the brand as it tackles the evolving global landscape of both two-wheel and four-wheel racing.
Stepping into the role is Keiichi Yasuda, who has been promoted from his current positions as Executive Vice President and Representative Director. This appointment follows a structured periodic personnel rotation plan implemented by the company to reinforce its managerial framework, respond to global transformations, and accelerate future business expansion.
Yasuda's journey within the company began back in 1990 within the Human Resources division, gradually expanding his expertise in the motorcycle sector before reaching his current executive posts. Uniquely, Yasuda will officially assume the presidency on January 1—contrary to the usual Japanese corporate practice of April appointments—in order to align perfectly with the seasonality of motorsport and face the 2027 campaign with the new leadership structure in place from day one.
"I consider it my mission to resolutely take over the solid legacy built by Watanabe, develop it further, align everyone's commitment toward the single goal of race victory, and make Honda HRC even stronger," declared Yasuda regarding his vision. "Leveraging my managerial experience leading overseas branches and my background in human resources, I will focus on investing in people and strengthening the organization with an eye toward winning. I will dedicate myself to building an Honda HRC whose challenges engage stakeholders and motorsport fans so we can share the thrill of victory together."
Meanwhile, Watanabe's successful tenure at the helm since 2022 successfully unified both motorcycle and automobile racing under a single banner. "It is an honor for me to hold the position of president of HRC alongside extraordinary colleagues," reflected Watanabe, looking back at his influential term bridging multiple global motorsport categories.
Read Also
Jadwal lengkap MotoGP Mandalika 2025 dan siaran langsung. Pertarungan sengit Jorge Martin dan Marc Marquez memperebutkan puncak klasemen.
Pecco Bagnaia menilai persaingan gelar MotoGP antara Jorge Martin dan Marc Marquez sangat fantastis dengan karakteristik sirkuit yang menentukan.
Marc Marquez tebar ancaman di MotoGP usai sapu bersih poin di Jepang dan pangkas jarak tipis dari Jorge Martin dalam perebutan gelar juara dunia.
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!