Formula 1’s 2026 power unit regulations continues to be the apple of discord behind the scenes, and Honda Racing Company President Koji Watanabe declares the matter not over.
While Mercedes is rumoured to have their affairs in order, most other manufacturers are wrestling with the new hybrid system’s heavy reliance on electrical energy (50-50 power split between the electrical componen and the internal combustion engine's side, ed.).
Koji Watanabe, president of Honda Racing Company, told as-web.jp that talks among suppliers have reached a standstill.
Meetings during the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend brought together Honda, Red Bull, Ferrari, Audi, General Motors and Mercedes to discuss potential tweaks to the rules, particularly the MGU-K’s enhanced role.
No agreement yet, reveals Honda president
But no agreement was struck then – and none has been since, the Japanese manufacturer's top man revealed.
“For the time being, talks have come to a halt. Therefore, we power unit manufacturers are now concentrating on 2026.
"However, I believe that discussions regarding future power units are not over,” Watanabe said.
Honda, which is returning as a full works supplier with Aston Martin in 2026, has repeatedly voiced concerns over the FIA’s vision.
With electrical deployment set to double compared to current levels, energy recovery and battery capacity are proving to be critical and difficult to overcome challenges.
Honda not done with F1 2026 power unit argument
Still, Watanabe believes the issue will inevitably be revisited.
“As long as the ideals currently held by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) remain unchanged, I expect discussions will begin again.”
The warning underlines how unsettled the power unit landscape remains.
While the FIA continues to receive criticism from drivers and power unit manufacturers alike, the governing body still defends the overall integrity of the comprehensive regulations overhaul F1 looks set to undertake.
The manufacturers, however, continue to push back, arguing that competitiveness, cost, and reliability could all be jeopardised if the balance between combustion and electric energy is not adjusted.
With less approximately 7 months until the new cars hit the track, the question is whether consensus can be found – or whether Mercedes’ reported advantage will leave rivals on the back foot before the new era even begins.
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