Honda keeps a close eye on F1
Having retired from the F1 paddocks since the end of the 2008 championship, Honda continues to watch Formula 1 with a certain interest, particularly the future regulations that might make the Japanese manufacturer want to return to the starting grids.
On the occasion of the Italian Grand Prix in September, Jean Todt – President of the FIA – mentioned his hope of bringing new manufacturers to Formula 1 through cost reductions and the introduction of the V6 engine starting in 2014. The name Volkswagen is obviously on everyone’s lips, as rumors of the German manufacturer’s arrival in the top tier of motorsport have been circulating for several years. However, another engine manufacturer might be tempted: Honda.
Since its withdrawal during the 2008-2009 offseason, the name of the Japanese brand has also regularly returned to the forefront of F1 news regarding a possible return to competition. Yoshiharu Yamamoto, general manager of the Research and Development department of the Japanese manufacturer, adds some fuel to the fire of these rumors by stating that he would like to see Honda involved in Formula 1 in the future.
« I can’t speak for Honda, but from a personal point of view, I love racing, but there’s a lot of involvement when you’re in F1. It’s truly the pinnacle of motor racing and it requires total investment. It’s true that we watch these races and hope that we can take part in them again someday, » explains Yoshiharu Yamamoto to our colleagues at Autocar.
However, the potential return of Honda to Formula 1 won’t happen tomorrow. The brand will first invest in the WTCC touring championship starting next year. « I don’t think we can come back immediately, but there is the possibility that rule changes might attract us. I’ve followed the rules, and if an opportunity arises, then it would be good to be back. The first thing we need to do is win the WTCC, then maybe we can look further ahead, » adds Yamamoto.
Honda was involved twice as a full-fledged constructor. First in the 1960s and then from 2006 to 2008, without achieving the expected success. The brand’s history as an engine supplier is more glorious, whether with Williams or McLaren, from 1984 to 1992. During this period, Honda won six constructors’ championships and five drivers’ championships.
