Honda has taken a step closer to its Formula 1 return in 2026 with the establishment of a new base in the United Kingdom.
The Japanese manufacturer will return to the sport in two years’ time with Aston Martin when new technical regulations come into play.
Honda will supply power units to the Silverstone-based squad as it reinstates its presence in F1 following its departure from Red Bull as a works supplier at the end of 2021, when Max Verstappen took his maiden title.
After Honda’s withdrawal, Red Bull formed its own in-house powertrains division, as Honda continues to be a partner to Red Bull although it is largely not involved in power unit operations.
The new base is set to be located in Bracknell, which is south of Aston Martin’s hub in Silverstone.
Outlining its plans for the new centre, Honda said: “This new company has been founded to primarily perform post-race maintenance and preparation tasks on the Honda built F1 power units (PUs), whilst also operating as a logistics operation for the European region.
“The establishment of HRC UK will further enhance the effectiveness of Honda’s PU operations, in support of the partnership with Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team.
“In May 2023, Honda and Aston Martin F1 jointly announced they will enter into works partnership so that Honda will supply its F1 PUs compliant with the new F1 regulations which will take effect in the 2026 season.
“Following the establishment of the new company in the UK, HRC will start the recruitment of engineers, technicians and staff members for the new company from Spring 2024.”