Honda have already signalled that they are behind schedule in developing their 2026 engine, casting doubt on Aston Martin’s hopes of a strong start to the new Formula 1 era.
The team parted ways with Mercedes at the end of last year after a partnership that began during their Force India days, opting instead to become a Honda works outfit.
Honda, who had planned to leave F1 before reversing their decision in 2023, have admitted internally that they are struggling to keep up with the development pace required for the new regulations.
Some rumours even suggest Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll is personally funding Honda’s development efforts, with reports indicating limited direct investment from the manufacturer itself.
Honda’s early 2026 engine struggles add to Aston Martin’s worries
On The Race F1 podcast, Scott Mitchell-Malm spoke about how Honda, which started with a very small team focused on the 2026 regulations, has basically ‘run out of time’.
The upcoming F1 rules include a catch-up system for manufacturers that fall behind, and Honda might need that extra development period.
The power unit, shown at an event earlier this week, may already be facing issues with both performance and reliability.
Mitchell-Malm said: “The suggestions are that they’ve basically run out of time to get everything done to the level that they would have wanted.”
“I’m not 100% sure whether that’s across the internal combustion engine, the energy recovery side, or both. I have heard some whispers about performance and reliability not being there.
“There’s challenges, there’s issues to resolve, but I think that’s always the way for manufacturers at this time of year.”
2026 Rule Changes Causing Reliability Issues for Several F1 Teams
According to The Times, multiple teams are dealing with reliability issues as the start of testing approaches. Track action is set to begin on Monday in Barcelona, with teams allowed three days of running over a five-day period.
Cadillac, who will run Ferrari engines this year, spent several hours in the garage before getting their first F1 car out on track at Silverstone last week.
The Racing Bulls had similar issues with their Red Bull engine ahead of their initial laps at Imola.
It’s also been reported that Mercedes and RBPT have found a rule loophole that offers a noticeable boost in horsepower. In response, Ferrari, Honda and Audi have reportedly formed an alliance to push back against it.
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