Newey says Honda disappointed by 2026 progress

Aston Martin team principal Adrian Newey said Honda has probably been disappointed by its progress in 2026, while expressing confidence that the manufacturer can improve in the years ahead. Newey made the assessment during an FIA press conference at the United States Grand Prix in Austin. He said the difficulties had strengthened Honda’s resolve to make progress, adding that the company had capable people and processes in place. He also said the first year of the renewed partnership was still unfolding and that improvement would not happen overnight. Honda is in its first season back as Aston Martin’s works power-unit supplier. Newey said it was currently behind the position Honda had reached when Red Bull began working with the manufacturer in 2019. He noted that Honda had already been back in Formula 1 for four seasons by then, having returned in 2015, whereas its current partnership with Aston Martin is in its first year. Aston Martin has made some progress during the season, but remains 10th in the constructors’ championship, ahead only of newcomer Cadillac, according to reported standings. The team’s performance deficit has raised questions about the relative...