F1 News: McLaren And Honda Could Reunite After Initial Conversations For 2026
McLaren and Honda have initiated conversations about a potential reunion in Formula 1 as both companies weigh their options for the 2026 engine rules.
The two companies worked together in the V6 turbo-hybrid era from 2015 to 2017, but the relationship ended due to poor engine performance and reliability that led to increased tensions between the two. Honda eventually switched to supplying Red Bull Racing, which led to consecutive titles in 2021 and 2022 with Max Verstappen at the wheel.
According to reports from The Race.com, the current discussions between McLaren and Honda are believed to be in the early stages as both companies weigh their options. Honda officially quit F1 in 2020 but agreed to supply engines to Red Bull until 2025. The Japanese manufacturer has since registered its interest in the 2026 rules with the FIA, making it one of six manufacturers set to participate.
It was revealed last week that Red Bull will be working with Ford for the 2026 engine rules, as Honda couldn't give them an answer quick enough. McLaren CEO, Zak Brown, is also understood to have visited the Red Bull Powertrains facility and is considering all options available, including Audi and Mercedes.
McLaren and Mercedes have a long-term contract and Brown has stated, "We’re very happy with Mercedes." However, Brown is open to exploring other options for 2026 and beyond.
Nothing has been confirmed yet as all discussions are in the early stages.
The 2023 season will be starting with the Bahrain Grand Prix on 3-5 March with pre-season testing the week prior. February is filled with the teams car launches, with McLaren's set for Monday 13.