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Honda replaces F1 power unit boss in organisation shuffle
The Japanese manufacturer said the planned transition will help accelerate power unit development and transfer technical expertise to younger engineers.
- On Monday, Honda Racing Corporation announced a leadership restructure for its Formula 1 power unit program, promoting Yoichiro Fukao to Large Project Leader effective October 1st, 2026, replacing Tetsushi Kakuda.
- Amid a difficult 2026 campaign, Honda and partner Aston Martin have struggled to capitalize on new engine regulations, with Aston Martin sitting 10th of 11 teams in the constructors' championship.
- Following Sunday's Spanish Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso finished 17th and Lance Stroll retired, with both drivers reporting lingering power unit driveability problems that continue to hamper performance.
- Describing the move as a 'planned transition,' Honda aims to establish a robust development framework and capitalize on an overhauled power unit designed for 2027 competition.
- Trackside general manager Shintaro Orihara said Honda 'observed step forward in terms of performance on our metrics,' though the gain remains small and less than Aston Martin expected.
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Honda appoints new head of F1 engine program
Honda has announced a new head of its Formula 1 power unit project as it looks to accelerate its development with Aston Martin.The Japanese manufacturer has struggled under new regulations in 2026, having redistributed a number of personnel from its previous engine program when it originally announced it was pulling...
Honda has decided to make a major change in the leadership of its Formula 1 project after a 2026 season long awaited with Aston Martin. Tetsushi Kakuda, the man who led the development of the power unit, will be replaced by Yoichiro Fukao as of October 1.
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