Changes to the F1 Power Unit Development Structure

Honda Racing Corporation will implement a change in the leadership of its F1 Power Unit (PU) development programme, effective October 1st, 2026, with the aim of further accelerating PU development and ensuring a smooth transition to the next generation of engineers. Yoichiro Fukao, currently serving as Assistant LPL (Deputy Leader of the F1 Project, Head of the Software Division), will assume the role of LPL (Large Project Leader), succeeding Tetsushi Kakuda, who has led the PU development to date.

This organisational change is a planned transition designed to ensure the reliable transfer of technical expertise to the next generation of engineers. 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.

[Career Summary of Yoichiro Fukao]

2002 Joined Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

2002 Honda R&D Co., Ltd. (Tochigi) Formula 1 Project /Development of Engine and Gearbox Control Systems

2009 Honda R&D Co., Ltd. (Tochigi)/Development of Mass-Production Hybrid Systems

2009 Honda R&D Co., Ltd. (Asaka) MotoGP Project /Control System Development

2011 Honda R&D Co., Ltd. (Tochigi)/Development of Mass-Production Hybrid Systems

2014 Honda R&D Co., Ltd. (Tochigi) Formula 1 Project /Control System Development Manager

2017 Honda R&D Co., Ltd. (Tochigi) Formula 1 Project /Deputy Leader of the F1 Project, Control System Development Manager, Sakura Mission Room (SMR) Manager

2022– Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) Formula 1 Project /Deputy Leader of the F1 Project, Control System Development Manager, SMR Manager