System 1 | Why Alonso is impatient to get Honda despite the McLaren period

Fernando Alonso says he is looking forward to working with Honda again in 2026 after extending his contract to drive for Aston Martin F1.

The team signed an engine supply agreement with the Japanese manufacturer last year, following the arrival of new power training regulations for the Formula 1 company, in two years. Alonso’s new contract means he will drive for Aston Martin-Honda in 2026.

Alonso said he spoke with Honda management before agreeing to his new contract and wanted to work with them again.

“I saw them, not at Suzuka (last week), a few months ago. I have a lot of love for Japan and for what they do there.”

“I think the level of discipline and the level of dedication they show in general is at another level in Japan. And that translates to Honda as well. I have also worked with Toyota in the endurance championship and I know this kind of discipline very well.”

“In 2026, we are definitely going to be unknown in terms of regulations. But if I had to choose one, I would choose our project and our engine. First, because I think they dominate the sport as I said now, and that. they have a very powerful engine in Red Bull and AlphaTauri (RB F1, editor’s note).

Alonso’s initial experience with Honda was not good and is remembered for his criticism of the “GP2 engine” on the radio during the 2015 Japanese Grand Prix. He joined McLaren that year, attracted by the prospect of using Honda power units back in the F1. However, they endured three non-competitive seasons which ended when McLaren terminated their contract.

Honda then enjoyed success with Red Bull, pushing Max Verstappen to the last three drivers’ championships. Alonso hopes they can be competitive again in 2026.

“Honda is a very successful manufacturer today in Formula 1, and not only in Formula 1, in the world of motorsport. It is always a company that I have respected.”

“It didn’t work for us at McLaren, the years they came back to the game, but soon after that they solved all the problems and now they are dominating the game. They are world champions in recent years. So I think they have a base for 2026 which is already very strong.”

“Also, their Sakura factory has the ability to build something very beautiful. I visited Sakura in 2014, 2015, 2016. I haven’t been there recently, but I know that they are very motivated there.”

Alonso expects Aston Martin to also be in a good position when F1 introduces its new sustainable energy in 2026.

“It’s something I would like to experiment with, as I said before, with Aramco, a great partner.”

“So I see a win-win situation. I respect Japanese culture as you all know. We just came back from Japan, a special race – we have a special hat when we race in Japan. With a samurai tattoo on my back, there’s still a lot of connection with Japan.”

“This year 2026 is interesting and I hope that after the experience with McLaren-Honda and IndyCar as well, now we have this opportunity to work together again. It is a real pleasure for me.”