Aston Martin collaborator Honda appoints new leader for F1 power unit division.

Sep 14, 2026

Aston Martin's power unit partner Honda has appointed a new project leader for its Formula 1 engine program as it seeks to regain its competitive edge.

On Monday, the Japanese automaker revealed that engine development head Tetsushi Kakuda will be succeeded by his assistant Yoichiro Fukao, starting on October 1. Honda Racing Corporation stated that this change is part of a "planned transition" but also emphasized the goal of "accelerating" the development of its power unit.

"Honda Racing Corporation will implement a leadership change in its F1 Power Unit (PU) development program, effective October 1st, 2026, with the intention of further speeding up PU development and ensuring a seamless transition to the next generation of engineers," Honda mentioned in a statement.

"Yoichiro Fukao, currently functioning as Assistant LPL (Deputy Leader of the F1 Project, Head of the Software Division), will step into the role of LPL (Large Project Leader), taking over from Tetsushi Kakuda, who has guided the PU development thus far.

"This organizational shift is a planned transition aimed at ensuring the dependable transfer of technical knowledge to the next generation of engineers."

Tetsushi Kakuda, HRC, at the 2023 Japanese GP

Honda has faced a challenging beginning to the new 2026 season, grappling with issues of performance and reliability that have warranted additional development assistance. By enacting this leadership change now, Honda aims to leverage the development of a revamped power unit for 2027.

"In light of the new regulations introduced in 2026, along with anticipated regulatory changes from 2027 onwards, Honda seeks to establish a solid development framework and deliver a highly competitive PU by transitioning to the new structure at an early stage," Honda added.

After a rough start to 2026, Honda was granted extra power unit support in May, beyond the initial ADUO system. However, during the Spanish Grand Prix weekend, discussions occurred between FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Aston Martin's Lawrence Stroll and Fernando Alonso regarding additional measures that could assist the struggling manufacturer.

One proposal is to further evaluate the ADUO upgrade system intended to support manufacturers that are lagging behind, with both Mercedes and Red Bull Ford Powertrains open to more adjustments.