Fernando Alonso reported engine oscillations in the Aston Martin AMR26 during the first practice session of the Hungarian Grand Prix. Honda’s trackside general manager and chief engineer, Shintaro Orihara, confirmed these oscillations were visible in the power unit data. Orihara stated this was an oscillation issue, distinct from the battery vibration problems experienced earlier in the 2026 season.
Honda’s analysis attributed the oscillations to engine combustion characteristics, likely stemming from sub-optimal engine temperature. The team had adopted a conservative approach with the new AMR26 B-spec chassis, which initially prevented the power unit from operating at its ideal temperature range. Honda subsequently adjusted data settings and reduced operational margins.
These adjustments led to a session-by-session improvement in the oscillations throughout the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend. Adrian Newey, Aston Martin Team Principal, also noted the oscillations on onboard cameras and confirmed Honda was actively working on a solution. Alonso later indicated the issue was resolved by Saturday.
The Hungarian Grand Prix marked the debut of Aston Martin’s AMR26 B-spec, a substantial 16-part chassis upgrade. This was the first major upgrade package for the team in the 2026 season, aiming to address the car’s initial overweight condition and enhance aerodynamic performance.
Key modifications included a redesigned front wing, a slimmer nose profile, revised front brake ducts, a new sidepod shape, and an updated floor. The B-spec package enabled Alonso to reach Q2 for the first time this season, demonstrating a performance step for the team.
Aston Martin’s performance at the Hungaroring saw them competing more effectively, moving from the back of the grid to challenge teams such as Cadillac, Williams, Haas, and Alpine. Both AMR26s completed the race, with Lance Stroll finishing P13 and Alonso P14.
Mike Krack, Aston Martin’s Chief Trackside Officer, acknowledged the encouraging early signs from the upgrade. However, he emphasized that further track time is necessary to fully evaluate the package’s overall performance potential. Newey confirmed the Hungarian upgrade was the first phase of a multi-stage chassis overhaul.
The team had faced a challenging start to the 2026 season, with significant reliability issues, including abnormal vibrations that damaged the battery system during pre-season testing. This limited their mileage and impacted early race finishes. Honda had previously confirmed these battery vibration issues were resolved by the Miami Grand Prix.
Looking ahead, Honda will introduce a new-spec power unit at the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix. This upgraded engine completed its initial on-track running during an Aston Martin filming day at the Hungaroring on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.
Orihara indicated that the Dutch Grand Prix engine upgrade is expected to be a significant step. It will feature changes to the combustion chamber shape to improve performance, modifications to the lubrication system to reduce friction, and overall reliability enhancements.
The 2026 Dutch Grand Prix is scheduled to take place from August 21-23 at Circuit Zandvoort. This event will be the twelfth round of the current Formula 1 season and will incorporate a sprint race format.
