Honda has made a leadership change at the top of its Formula 1 engine programme. Tetsushi Kakuda, the long-time leader of the power unit development, will be replaced by his current assistant Yoichiro Fukao, effective 1 October 2026. The announcement came from Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) on Monday, signalling a new chapter in the Japanese manufacturer's quest to climb back up the grid.
This is not just a routine reshuffle. HRC described the move as a "planned transition" aimed at accelerating power unit development and ensuring a smooth handover to the next generation of engineers. "Honda Racing Corporation will implement a change in the leadership of its F1 Power Unit (PU) development programme, effective October 1st, 2026, with the aim of further accelerating PU development and ensuring a smooth transition to the next generation of engineers," the statement read.
Fukao, who previously served as Assistant LPL (Deputy Leader of the F1 Project, Head of the Software Division), now steps into the role of LPL (Large Project Leader). His background in software could prove crucial in an era where hybrid power units rely heavily on electronic efficiency and energy management.
Honda has endured a torrid start to the 2026 regulations, struggling for both performance and reliability, which earned it additional development help from the FIA. Back in May, Honda was granted extra support beyond the existing ADUO (Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities) system. But the pressure remains. Over the Spanish Grand Prix weekend, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem reportedly met with Lawrence Stroll and Fernando Alonso to discuss further measures to aid the struggling manufacturer.
One suggestion on the table is to further revise the ADUO system, designed to help a manufacturer that has fallen behind. Both Mercedes and Red Bull Ford Powertrains are said to be open to more tweaks. For Honda, this represents a chance to close the gap without sacrificing the already challenging 2026 season.
With this leadership change, Honda hopes to capitalise on the development of an overhauled power unit for 2027. "Following the introduction of the new regulations in 2026, and with further regulatory changes expected from 2027 onwards, Honda aims to establish a robust development framework and deliver a highly competitive PU by transitioning to the new structure at an early stage," Honda added.
Making the transition early also gives Fukao and his team time to adapt before the pressures of the 2027 season begin. It's a strategic move that shows Honda is determined not to repeat past mistakes. In Formula 1, the speed of development is everything.
For fans, especially supporters of Aston Martin, this change brings renewed hope. The Honda-Aston Martin partnership is expected to deliver more competitive performances, at least to improve their position in the constructors' standings. However, all that must be proven on track, not just in the meeting room.
Baca Juga
Honda ganti bos mesin F1 jelang musim 2027. Langkah ini diambil untuk mempercepat pengembangan power unit Aston Martin yang tertinggal di era regulasi baru.
Honda mengganti Tetsushi Kakuda dengan Yoichiro Fukao sebagai pemimpin proyek power unit F1. Langkah ini untuk mempercepat pengembangan menuju musim 2027.
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