Aston Martin’s engine partner Honda has appointed a new leader for its Formula 1 power‑unit programme to help restore competitiveness.
On Monday, the Japanese manufacturer announced that engine development chief Tetsushi Kakuda will be succeeded by his deputy, Yoichiro Fukao, effective 1 October. Honda Racing Corporation described the change as a planned transition intended to accelerate power‑unit development.
Honda Racing Corporation said the leadership change will speed up PU development and ensure a smooth hand‑over to the next generation of engineers.
Yoichiro Fukao, presently Assistant LPL and head of the software division, will take over as Large Project Leader, succeeding Tetsushi Kakuda, who has overseen PU development.
The reorganisation is intended to guarantee a reliable transfer of technical expertise to the upcoming generation of engineers.
Tetsushi Kakuda, HRC, at the 2023 Japanese GP
Photo by: Giorgio Piola
Honda has had a difficult start to the 2026 regulations, struggling with performance and reliability and qualifying for extra development assistance. The leadership change is intended to leverage the upcoming overhauled power unit for the 2027 season.
With the new 2026 regulations in place and anticipated further changes in 2027, Honda seeks to build a strong development framework and deliver a competitive power unit by adopting the new structure early.
After a poor beginning to the 2026 season, Honda received extra power‑unit support in May beyond the initial ADUO scheme. During the Spanish Grand Prix weekend, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem held discussions with Aston Martin’s Lawrence Stroll and Fernando Alonso about additional assistance for the struggling manufacturer.
A proposal calls for revisiting the ADUO upgrade system, which assists manufacturers lagging behind, with both Mercedes and Red Bull Ford Powertrains expressing willingness to consider further adjustments.