ANALYSIS: How and why Honda and Aston Martin got together for 2026
Honda putting pen to paper to become Aston Martin’s works engine partner from 2026 completes a remarkable U-turn for the Japanese manufacturer, who just a few years ago decided to quit Formula 1 and divert resources elsewhere. So, what has sparked Honda’s change of heart, and why have Aston Martin ended a long-standing relationship with Mercedes to jump ship?
Why did Honda choose to return now?
To understand why Honda are back, we must go back to the summer of 2020, when Honda began evaluating their place in F1 before announcing their exit a few months later. At the time, the world – both internally and externally – looked very different.

Unlock exclusive F1 content and more with F1 Unlocked. Totally free.
Membership gets you closer with:
Curated insider content
Live like an F1 insider with exclusive access and VIP experiences
Member benefits, rewards and offers
Next Up
Related Articles
Tech WeeklyHow Ferrari's updates could unlock the car's potential
F1 FantasyWin tour of McLaren’s Technology Centre with F1 Fantasy
Beyond The GridNorris on raising his game and fighting for the title
5 storylines we're excited about ahead of Silverstone
F1 FantasyWhat's the best F1 Fantasy line-up for Silverstone?
Keanu Reeves to front new Cadillac documentary series