Honda has cast doubt on its continued presence in Formula 1 if V10 engines are confirmed for 2028, a rumor that could jeopardize its continued presence in motorsport’s top competition due to its commitment to electrification.
Honda questions its future in Formula 1
The return of V10 engines to Formula 1 has sparked debate in the paddock and may lead to unexpected results. Honda, one of the main manufacturers in the category, is sending a very clear message: any decision about continuing in the competition will depend on the direction of the engines. Koji Watanabe, president of Honda Racing Corporation, has been very clear on the matter: “Our reason for returning to F1 is electrification and the type of engine”.
The FIA (International Automobile Federation) has proposed bringing forward the eventual arrival of the V10 for 2028, three seasons earlier than initially considered. This situation would cause an earthquake for the current planning of engine suppliers, who are already working on the new regulations for 2026. Mercedes has warned of the chaos this could generate, given that several teams would have no power unit supplier if the 2026 regulations were canceled or radically modified.
Honda’s dilemma: regression or evolution?
Honda is currently working with Aston Martin on the power unit for 2026. If the FIA goes ahead with the reintroduction of V10s, Honda will have to decide on its future in Formula 1 or reformulate its strategy. Honda’s current commitment to electrification could lead Honda to withdraw from the project.
Watanabe emphasized the fact that he has no information regarding the FIA’s proposal and that, likewise, they must first discuss it in the appropriate forum with the other manufacturers. “We cannot say whether V10s are acceptable or not in terms of efficiency. Before starting any discussion, we want to fully understand the details of the proposal”.
The position taken by the Japanese brand reflects that they are not going to rush into making decisions, but the warning they are issuing is more than clear: if Formula 1 leaves behind its path towards electrification, Honda’s continuity in F1 could be over.
What Honda’s departure implies
If Honda chooses to stop participating in Formula 1, the championship would take a major blow. The Japanese brand has played a central role in the evolution of the top category of motorsport in recent years, first allowing Red Bull to stand out and now allowing Aston Martin to improve its results. Honda’s departure would not only affect the team it works with; its departure could send the wrong message to manufacturers who want to get closer to the category.
F1 made a notable effort to direct its future towards sustainability and electrification, and backtracking can not only produce uncertainties among other engine manufacturers, but also Honda’s departure would cause a gap that other manufacturers would have to fill, something that would not be easy.
For the moment, the future of Honda in Formula 1 remains uncertain. The final word will come from the negotiations with the FIA and the direction the category takes in the coming years. What is clear is that if F1 does not commit to electrification, it will end up losing one of its top manufacturers.