Stroll: Honda partnership marks a “new chapter” as Aston Martin targets championships from 2026

F1 Grand Prix, GP Mexico, Autódromo Hermanos Rodriguez

Aston Martin’s long‑anticipated partnership with Honda took center stage in Japan as Executive Chairman Lawrence Stroll outlined the team’s ambitions for the 2026 Formula One season and beyond.

With Honda returning as a full works power‑unit supplier, Stroll described the collaboration as a transformative moment for the Silverstone‑based outfit.

Stroll opened by emphasizing the significance of launching the partnership in Japan. He said it was “an honor to be in Japan to celebrate this new partnership,” adding that Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team and Honda “share many values that forged a strong bond toward 2026 and beyond.”

A strengthened technical base at Silverstone
The Executive Chairman highlighted the rapid expansion of Aston Martin’s infrastructure, which he believes places the team in its strongest position yet.

He explained that “the new Aston Martin Technology Centre at Silverstone has been completed, further strengthening the organization like never before.” He added that “the new wind tunnel is proving to be a vital asset for development,” and noted that a new data center is under construction to further enhance the team’s capabilities.

According to Stroll, these investments reflect a team pushing relentlessly toward future success. He said the organization “is pushing boundaries and working tirelessly with future success at the forefront.”

Stroll stressed that the collaboration with Honda represents a fundamental shift in how Aston Martin will design and develop its Formula One machinery. He explained that the team “is entering into a true works partnership with Honda, meaning the chassis and PU are designed as one integrated package,” a move he described as “crucial to the aspiration to win championships.”

He also acknowledged the importance of the team’s wider technical ecosystem. Stroll said the team “is proud to have Aramco providing sustainable fuels and Valvoline with lubricants for the first time,” and emphasized that “these strong technical partnerships are absolutely vital to success.” He expressed gratitude to all three partners “for sharing the same vision and working tirelessly side‑by‑side.”

Stroll highlighted the growing synergy between Aston Martin’s Silverstone headquarters and Honda Racing Corporation’s Sakura facility. He said that “the close collaboration between the UK base of Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team and HRC Sakura in Japan has already grown into a very close partnership, now with everything needed to achieve success.”

He added that the team’s drivers “have tremendous trust in the Honda PU and its engineers,” underscoring the confidence already building around the 2026 project.

Stroll also pointed to the arrival of Andy Cowell as Chief Strategy Officer as evidence of the team’s unified direction. He explained that Cowell’s appointment “is reflective of just how closely everyone is working together,” and that “Andy’s huge expertise is helping the team move forward side by side.”

Stroll closed his remarks with a message to supporters, particularly those in Japan. He invited “all of the fans of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team in Japan to join the team on this journey as it takes on the challenge of winning together.”

He said that “with Honda, the team will strive for victory and build a new chapter in its history,” and described it as “exciting to be on that journey with everyone,” offering thanks for their continued support.

As Aston Martin prepares for the most significant regulatory overhaul in modern Formula One, Stroll’s message was clear: the team believes it now has the partners, the facilities, and the ambition to fight for championships — and Honda is central to that vision.