Lance Stroll has detailed a significant performance deficit from the Honda power unit currently supplied to Aston Martin. The Canadian driver indicated that the team is losing between one and two seconds per lap due to the engine’s performance, depending on the circuit. This assessment comes as Aston Martin navigates a challenging 2026 Formula 1 season.
Stroll highlighted that the power unit’s shortfall is particularly evident on tracks demanding high engine power, such as the Baku City Circuit and Monza. He stated that a two-second deficit in engine performance severely limits competitive potential at such venues.
Honda Racing Corporation President Koji Watanabe confirmed that Honda has deployed both of its permitted in-season development upgrades for the 2026 power unit. The first upgrade was introduced at the Dutch Grand Prix, followed by a second update at the Spanish Grand Prix.
The initial upgrade in the Netherlands focused on improving combustion efficiency. The subsequent update in Spain specifically targeted the turbocharger’s performance and addressed drivability concerns with the new power unit.
Despite these interventions, Stroll reported minimal improvement. When questioned about the impact of the upgrades, he responded, ‘Not much.’ He acknowledged the team’s ongoing struggles with the engine performance.
Independent telemetry analysis following the Spanish Grand Prix suggested that while the Honda power unit showed some marginal gains, a substantial overall power deficit persisted. Industry engineers estimated this gap to be in the range of 30 to 50 horsepower compared to leading competitors.
Aston Martin Team Principal Mike Krack has publicly acknowledged the power unit challenges. He expressed confidence in Honda’s capacity to address these issues in the long term.
In contrast to the engine situation, Stroll offered a positive assessment of the AMR26 chassis development. He noted a significant step forward in Budapest, indicating a clear development direction for the car’s aerodynamic package.
This chassis improvement aligns with reports of a substantial aerodynamic update introduced at the Hungarian Grand Prix. This package reportedly enhanced the car’s balance and cornering capabilities.
Fernando Alonso, Stroll’s teammate, extended his contract with Aston Martin through the 2027 season. This decision was finalized in April 2026, securing his future with the team despite the current power unit performance issues.
Alonso’s contract extension involved minimal negotiation, with the two-time world champion and team owner Lawrence Stroll quickly reaching an agreement. This indicates continued confidence in Aston Martin’s long-term project.
Aston Martin currently holds fifth position in the Constructors’ Championship as of early October 2026. The team has faced difficulties in consistently challenging the top three constructors.
Honda is reportedly developing a more comprehensive power unit overhaul for the 2027 season. This will coincide with the introduction of a new generation of engines under revised Formula 1 regulations.
