Honda Clarifies Aston Martin Misunderstanding After Newey’s Concerning Claim
Honda’s motorsport chief Koji Watanabe has moved to clear the air after a public spat raised by Adrian Newey in Melbourne. Newey had suggested Aston Martin only learned in November 2025 that some engineers from Honda’s previous works F1 programme were no longer involved. Watanabe described the issue as a misunderstanding when speaking to media, including Filmogaz.com.
Background and timeline
Honda formally withdrew from its factory F1 involvement in 2021. At that time, the company shifted focus to carbon-neutral technologies. The technical tie-up with Aston Martin was announced ahead of the 2023 season.
Newey said teams became aware in November 2025 about personnel changes tied to Honda’s earlier work with Red Bull and AlphaTauri. That claim prompted questions about continuity in the new Aston Martin-Honda partnership.
Watanabe’s explanation
Watanabe said Honda regularly rotates motorsport engineers into other projects. He said the policy moves staff into mass-production and advanced fields. Examples include jet work, eVTOL programmes and hydrology-related assignments.
He acknowledged rebuilding the organisation took time. Watanabe added this may have caused the appearance of gaps. He insisted Honda now has sufficient structure and talent to support Aston Martin.
Technical collaboration and personnel
Watanabe highlighted close cooperation between the two technical leads. Tetsushi Kakuda leads the Honda power-unit project. Enrico Cardile manages Aston Martin’s side. Watanabe said they work closely on development.
He also stressed healthy relations at ownership and design levels. Watanabe said he, Lawrence Stroll and Adrian Newey maintain constructive contact. He expressed no ongoing concern about the partnership.
On-track issues and outlook
The Aston Martin-Honda partnership has faced early reliability issues. Both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll experienced vibration problems that affected race finishes. Alonso did complete the most recent Japanese Grand Prix, however.
Watanabe framed his remarks as part of Honda clarifies efforts to address a perceived misunderstanding. He said the manufacturer remains committed to work closely with Aston Martin.
