The short answer: Honda plans to supply power units to Red Bull Racing and Scuderia AlphaTauri for the 2026 Formula One season, via the Red Bull Powertrains program, subject to contract finalization and regulatory approval.
Beyond that, the arrangement would mark a continuation of Honda’s long-running involvement with Red Bull Powertrains, following Honda’s withdrawal from works F1 activity after 2021. Since 2022, Red Bull Powertrains has coordinated the supply of Honda‑developed power units for Red Bull Racing and AlphaTauri, and the 2026 plan signals an extension of that collaboration into the new regulatory cycle.
Which teams will use Honda power units in 2026?
The following teams are expected to run Honda-powered power units in 2026 under the RBPT framework.
- Red Bull Racing
- Scuderia AlphaTauri
This pairing would keep Honda’s technology at the core of Red Bull’s F1 program, with development and production managed in partnership with Red Bull Powertrains.
Context and significance
Honda’s F1 story has shifted from a works entrant to a partner supplying power units through RBPT. For 2026, Honda has publicly indicated its intention to continue supplying engines to Red Bull’s teams, aligning with the new engine rules cycle and Red Bull’s long-term strategic goals. The deal remains contingent on final contract terms and compliance with FIA regulations.
What to watch next
Key factors include the finalization of the supply agreement, confirmation from the FIA about the 2026 power-unit regulations, and how RBPT and Honda coordinate on development, testing, and on-track supply across both Red Bull Racing and AlphaTauri.
As the 2026 season approaches, more detail is likely to emerge about performance targets, investment in power-unit development, and how this collaboration will influence the competitive landscape on the grid.
Summary
Honda appears poised to power Red Bull Racing and Scuderia AlphaTauri in 2026, continuing a close partnership under Red Bull Powertrains. While the arrangement hinges on final contracts and regulatory approval, the move would reinforce Honda’s ongoing influence in F1 during the new engine regulations era and keep Red Bull’s two teams aligned around a common power unit platform.
Who will be the engine providers for 2026?
The Five Engine Manufacturers for 2026
We're going from four engine suppliers to five. Renault is bowing out, but Audi and a Ford-backed Red Bull are joining the party. That means Ferrari, Mercedes, Honda, Red Bull Powertrains, and Audi will be the manufacturers powering F1 for the next cycle.
Who is using Honda engines next year?
Aston Martin
After seven years as the engine partner of Red Bull's senior team and eight years supplying its junior team, Racing Bulls, Honda has switched to Aston Martin in time for the introduction of F1's new power unit regulations.
Who will have Honda engines in 2026?
Honda will participate in the FIA Formula One World Championship (F1) from the 2026 season as a power unit (PU) supplier under a works partnership with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team.
What Honda engines to stay away from?
Honda Earth Dreams 1.5-liter Turbo-Four
Of all the engines on this list, the Earth Dreams 1.5-liter turbo-four might be the most problematic. It's used in a host of Honda's most popular vehicles, including the CR-V and Accord, as well as the less popular Civic Si.