# Honda HRC appoints new CEO after Watanabe retirement

> Honda Racing Corporation names Keiichi Yasuda as CEO after Koji Watanabe's retirement.
- Title: Honda HRC appoints new CEO after Watanabe retirement
- Summary: Honda Racing Corporation names Keiichi Yasuda as CEO after Koji Watanabe's retirement. Honda Racing Corporation appoints Keiichi Yasuda as CEO following Koji…
- Keywords: honda, honda hrc, keiichi yasuda, koji watanabe, aston martin racing, honda racing, honda motorsport, sports, cars, HRC, appoints, CEO
- Source: Autosport — https://autosport.com/f1/news/honda-hrc-to-get-new-boss-with-koji-watanabe-set-for-retirement/10862195
- Author: Filip Cleeren
- Published: 2026-10-05T08:28:52+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: honda, honda hrc, keiichi yasuda, koji watanabe, aston martin racing, f1, honda racing, honda motorsport, sports, cars
## Honda HRC CEO retirement
Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) announced current President and CEO Koji Watanabe will retire at the end of 2026.
## Watanabe's retirement date
Watanabe will retire on 1 January 2027 with Keiichi Yasuda appointed as his successor.
## Watanabe's background
Watanabe joined Honda in 1987 and became head of racing division in 2022.
## Watanabe's achievements
Watanabe oversaw Honda's merger of four-wheel and two-wheel divisions and returned to F1 as Aston Martin works partner.
## Yasuda's appointment
Yasuda, current Executive Vice President and Representative Director, will succeed Watanabe as HRC CEO.
## Yasuda's mission
Yasuda aims to inherit Watanabe's foundation and strengthen HRC for future racing success.

> I consider it my mission to firmly inherit the solid foundation built by Watanabe. Evolve it further, unite everyone's vector toward the single goal of winning in races, and make HRC even stronger
## Key takeaway

Honda Racing Corporation appoints Keiichi Yasuda as CEO following Koji Watanabe's retirement effective 1 January 2027.