Honda denies opposing F1 engine rule changes

Honda has denied suggestions it is standing in the way of Formula 1’s planned 2027 engine changes, while also signalling it is open to discussing a future return to V8 power.

The Japanese manufacturer has been linked to opposition against proposed revisions to the 2027 regulations, which could reduce the heavy reliance on electrical power after widespread criticism from drivers and teams.

But HRC president Koji Watanabe insists those reports are inaccurate.

"For us, the most important thing is safety and ensuring that F1 remains attractive to fans, so we are open to efforts aimed at improving the current situation," he told Spain’s Soy Motor.

"Some reports have appeared suggesting that we oppose revisions to the 2027 regulations, but that is not true. We respect the FIA’s decisions."

The FIA is expected to present manufacturers with proposals aimed at improving the racing while preserving the core principles of the new engine formula.

Honda says it will assess the details when they arrive.

"We haven’t yet seen the FIA’s proposal, so we’ll study it when we receive it," said Watanabe.

"Responding to rapid changes and unpredictable circumstances is part of the essence of F1, and that’s precisely what makes taking on the challenge worthwhile.

"Developing our technology in such an environment has always been Honda’s focus since the company’s founding, and that’s where we see the value in competing in F1."

Honda has also joined the growing number of manufacturers signalling they are willing to support a future switch to V8 engines powered by sustainable fuels.

Ford, General Motors, Red-Bull Honda and even Mercedes have already expressed support for exploring a simpler engine formula beyond the current regulations.

"We believe that F1 should always be a competition of cutting-edge technologies, regardless of whether the internal combustion engine has 12, 10, 8, or 6 cylinders," Watanabe said.

"As for a V8 engine, we haven’t received any detailed proposals, so we’re not in a position to comment on specifics, but we’re open to discussing it.

"We trust that F1 and the FIA will make the right decisions for the sport.

"We support any developments that improve the racing spectacle for the fans."