Honda Racing Corporation has announced a significant change in the leadership of its Formula 1 power unit development programme. Yoichiro Fukao, currently serving as Deputy Leader of the F1 Project, will assume the role of Large Project Leader, effective October 1, 2026. He succeeds Tetsushi Kakuda.
This organisational shift is described by Honda as a planned transition. The manufacturer aims to ensure the reliable transfer of technical expertise to the next generation of engineers. Honda also stated the change is intended to accelerate power unit development.
The transition comes as Formula 1 navigates new regulations introduced for the 2026 season, with further rule changes anticipated from 2027 onwards. Honda seeks to establish a robust development framework to deliver a competitive power unit under these evolving technical specifications.
The leadership change coincides with a challenging 2026 season for Aston Martin, Honda’s works partner. The team has struggled with performance and reliability since the start of their partnership this year.
Aston Martin currently occupies 10th position in the Constructors’ Championship, with only three points accumulated. These points were all secured by Fernando Alonso, placing the team ahead of only new entrant Cadillac.
The Honda power unit has experienced issues, including severe vibration problems at the beginning of the season. Reliability failures linked to the Honda unit resulted in neither Aston Martin car finishing any of the first three races.
An upgraded ‘Spec 2’ engine was introduced at the Dutch Grand Prix, which addressed some of the vibration concerns. While Honda noted a step forward in performance, Lance Stroll commented that the improvement was ‘not nearly enough’.
At the recent Spanish Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso finished 17th. His teammate, Lance Stroll, retired from the event due to brake issues.
The works partnership between Aston Martin and Honda commenced with the 2026 season. This arrangement marked Honda’s return to Formula 1 as a full engine builder. Aston Martin is the sole recipient of Honda power units this year.
Amidst these performance difficulties, Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin’s Executive Chairman, has reportedly explored alternative engine suppliers for the 2028 season. Reports indicate Stroll has sounded out Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains regarding potential deals.
This outreach suggests a contingency plan if Honda does not deliver substantial improvements by the 2027 season. Stroll had previously emphasised the need for patience with Honda’s development.
Yoichiro Fukao joined Honda in 2002, contributing to engine and gearbox control systems development. His career also includes work on Honda’s MotoGP programme and mass-production hybrid systems before returning to F1 in 2014.
Tetsushi Kakuda, whom Fukao replaces, previously led the power unit development that contributed to Max Verstappen’s four consecutive drivers’ titles with Red Bull.
