Honda has announced that Yoichiro Fukao is take over the leadership of its F1 Project from Tetsushi Kakuda.

"This organisational change is a planned transition designed to ensure the reliable transfer of technical expertise to the next generation of engineers," said the Japanese manufacturer in a statement issued this morning.

"Following the introduction of the new regulations in 2026, and with further regulatory changes expected from 2027 onwards, Honda aims to establish a robust development framework and deliver a highly competitive PU by transitioning to the new structure at an early stage," it added.

Honda, which had left the sport at the height of its successful streak with Red Bull but returned having been enticed by the regulations overhaul, has, ironically, failed to get to grips with the new rules, as was the case at the time of the original switch to a hybrid formula.

The Japanese manufacturer's cause hasn't been helped by its (temporary) departure from the sport, which resulted in some key officials being moved to other departments and others moving to rivals.

A much-anticipated upgrade hasn't helped, indeed, Honda appears to have taken a step backwards, a move which could cause Fernando Alonso to walk away from the sport.

Such is his fear that F1 might lose the two-time world champion, FIA president, Mohammed ben Sulayem, has talked of changes to the regulations, though it is understood his comments have been somewhat misconstrued.

Nonetheless, despite having, arguably the best designer in the sport, first class facilities, and one of F1's greatest drivers, Aston Martin is one of the 2026 season's lame ducks.

Since joining Honda in 2002, Fukao has overseen the development of engine and gearbox control systems before joining the Japanese giant's MotoGP programme in 2009.

From 2011 he focused on the development of hybrid systems before returning to the F1 programme, being promoted to the role of Deputy Leader of the F1 Project in 2017 and again in 2022 when Honda announced its full return to the sport.

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