From The Drive · Jerry Perez · · 1m
Honda's 500th F1 Race: Struggles and Comebacks
Honda's 500th F1 race shows resilience after decades of setbacks.
In brief
Honda's 500th F1 race shows resilience after decades of setbacks. Honda has competed in 500 F1 races since 1964 but struggles to return to dominance after recent poor results. Originally reported by The Drive.
Honda's 500th F1 Race
Honda Racing Corporation celebrated its 500th Formula 1 race at the 2026 United States Grand Prix in Austin.
“The 2026 United States Grand Prix marked the Japanese automaker’s 500th Formula 1 race.”
Honda's F1 History
Honda entered F1 in 1964, winning its first race in 1965 and competing as a factory team until 1968.
“From 1964 through 1968, it competed as a factory team, building its own engine and chassis and securing its first-ever F1 win in 1965 at the Mexican Grand Prix.”
Golden Era with McLaren
Honda's partnership with McLaren from 1988 to 1991 earned four consecutive Constructors' and Drivers' Championships.
“The golden era was arguably the McLaren-Honda partnership, steered by Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost; from 1988 to 1991, Honda defined its involvement in F1 and reinforced its commitment to racing in general.”
Recent Struggles
Honda's current Aston Martin team finished 15th and 16th in the 2026 race, but has improved significantly with recent upgrades.
“The Honda-powered Aston Martin racers of Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso managed 15th and 16th on race day.”
Past Challenges
Honda faced setbacks including a seven-year hiatus from F1 before returning in 2015 with McLaren.
“Following a seven-year hiatus from F1, Honda returned in 2015 as a power unit supplier, again with McLaren, for what is arguably the worst stain on an otherwise long and successful record.”
Future Plans
New Honda Racing president Keiichi Yasuda will take over on January 1, with confidence in Honda's continued success.
“Watanabe expressed confidence in Yasuda, explaining that he has extensive experience in operations and the racing division.”
The main idea
Honda has competed in 500 F1 races since 1964 but struggles to return to dominance after recent poor results.
