The Japanese manufacturer exited F1 at the end of last year, although it was already announced in 2020, as its parent company wanted to divert its resources towards zero-emission technology for production cars.
However, he did not turn his back on Formula 1 entirely, as Red Bull took over the management of the Honda power units that helped Verstappen win the drivers’ championship.
In addition, an agreement was reached for Honda to continue manufacturing, assembling and supporting the engines, and Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) badges would appear on Red Bull and AlphaTauri cars.
Honda’s success with Max Verstappen’s title in 2021, and F1’s big push towards a carbon-neutral future before changing new rules and to sustainable fuels from 2026, has seen speculate on the possibility that the mythical Japanese firm will return.
These rumors have been fueled by the visit that senior Honda officials made to the Austrian Grand Prix last weekend, including the general manager, Toshihiro Mibe , its president, Seiji Kuraishi , as well as the president of HRC, Koji Watanabe , and its director, Yasuaki Asaki .
And while the company insists there has been no formal change of heart on a program in F1, it does admit that they are closely watching how the 2026 engine regulations progress.
Speaking at the Red Bull Ring, Watanabe said: “Formula 1 is the highest category of motorsport, so we’re always keeping an eye on what’s going on in the world of F1.”
“Of course, we have just finished and concluded our activities, so nothing has been discussed within the Honda company about the 2026 season. Therefore, there is no plan.
“But the door is not closed. I understand that F1 is debating to decide the rules for 2026, and the direction to go is definitely carbon neutrality. That is the same direction we are going.”
“So we don’t have to deviate from carbon neutrality that F1 is also looking for. It’s also probably a good opportunity to study carbon neutral F1. So no, it’s not a closed door.”
Watanabe said Honda would have to get its carbon-neutral road car program up and running before seriously considering a return to the top flight.
Asked by Motorsport.com what would be the key factors in Honda greenlighting its return to F1, the HRC chairman said: “I think there are a number of factors that we have to keep an eye on.
“But once we decided to end our time in F1 it was in favor of race car production and carbon neutrality, we have to focus on that aspect first.”
“So once we realize we can pull it off, then we can look at F1.”
Regarding the deadlines to make a decision on a possible return to Formula 1 in 2026, Watanabe suggested that it is necessary to have it clear by the end of 2023.
“I don’t know the exact time frame,” he said. “But if we want to come back to F1 in 2026, we probably have to decide in a year to a year and a half.”
Honda wants to increase its brand and presence in Formula 1
While Honda’s possible return remains uncertain, what seems increasingly likely is an increased stake alongside Red Bull.
There is now talk of a closer technical partnership, along with a change in the brand’s focus on Red Bull teams and the ‘Honda’ name becoming more prominent again.
Watanabe added: “At least until 2025, Honda is going to be a kind of partner for both teams. And although the details have not been decided yet, also HRC will become a kind of technical partner for both teams until 2025.”
Asked to say more about the brand’s change of focus, Watanabe said: “We have to decide for next season, but personally I want to use the Honda name more… So the combination of Honda and HRC.”
Intellectual property of Honda F1 engines
When Red Bull took over the management of Honda’s power units for this season with its new powertrain division, it was thought that Milton Keynes had bought the intellectual property rights to the engines.
The element of intellectual property control of Honda’s power units became especially relevant during discussions on the 2026 rules, as it was agreed that new entrants would receive concessions to help them catch up with more established manufacturers.
Red Bull made a point of arguing, ahead of a likely tie-up with Porsche, that it should be considered a new entrant, while rivals suggested its Honda DNA meant it should be classified as an existing manufacturer.
Watanabe has now clarified that Red Bull has never bought the intellectual property for the engine, so it will revert to Honda when the current deal ends in 2025.
“They can use the intellectual property, but we haven’t sold it to them,” he said. “It’s just a lease.”
