Apr.8 (GMM) Honda will have a say in the driver lineup at Aston Martin in the future.
Both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll are already under contract for 2026, when they will get to race the first Adrian Newey-designed Aston Martin.
However, there have been whispers that Honda would like Yuki Tsunoda in a green car as soon as possible. And some early speculation is beginning to swirl around 43-year-old Alonso’s future, as well as how long Stroll – who was notably slow at Suzuka – can survive even though his father Lawrence owns the team.
Dutch GP boss Jan Lammers admits he can imagine Alonso quitting F1 at the end of the season.
“I have had the idea for a long time that Max (Verstappen) and Aston Martin can do something together,” he told Ziggo Sport.
“As soon as Lawrence Stroll has the idea that he can pry Max away from Red Bull, I think he will do what is necessary. He simply has that attitude.”
At present, Honda has a say about driver selection at Red Bull – with four cockpits to fill at both the main team as well as Racing Bulls.
But with Stroll, 26, seemingly protected by his father, that leaves just one Aston Martin cockpit that Honda can have influence over from next year.
“The number of seats will be reduced,” admits Honda Racing Corporation president Koji Watanabe, speaking to Japan Times.
“Obviously the team has the final say in deciding which drivers join the team, but the situation will be the same (as at Red Bull) where we will have our say.”
Meanwhile, Watanabe made clear that at a forthcoming meeting in Bahrain, he will strongly advocate that F1 proceed as planned with the 2026 engine regulations change – amid talk of a return to V10 power.
“Our stance hasn’t changed,” he said. “Electric is important to us and that is the reason why we continue to join.”
The Japanese is confident Honda will be competitive in 2026, despite the fact that its initial hybrid power unit supplied to McLaren from 2015 was a total failure.
“We had discontinued the project with Formula 1 so we were not prepared in 2015,” Watanabe said. “We started from zero. Now we’re not starting from zero, so it is a smoother development.”
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES