The Japanese manufacturer announced that it will become Aston Martin’s works partner from 2026, after committing to a formal return to F1 just three years after it revealed plans to leave.
The Aston Martin deal means there is the possibility of a renewed association with Alonso, who has had a chequered past with Honda.
The Spaniard endured the brunt of Honda’s initial struggles when it made a comeback to F1 with McLaren in 2015.
At the Japanese Grand Prix that year, and in front of Honda’s senior management, Alonso famously delivered the radio message “GP2 engine, aaaarrgggh” amid his ongoing frustrations with its problems.
Alonso later expressed regret about using those words, but the incident has become iconic in framing the situation he found himself in at the time.
While Honda bosses were far from impressed with Alonso’s remarks, its current chiefs are clear that there are no lingering hard feelings over the matter.
Asked if Honda would allow Alonso to race one of its cars, Honda Racing Corporation president Koji Watanabe said: "If we are to team up with Alonso again, as our driver, we have no objections whatsoever in him driving.”
Alonso’s presence at Aston Martin in to 2026 is not guaranteed though, as he will be 45 that year. However, the double world champion is showing no signs of lacking commitment or speed right now.
Martin Whitmarsh, Group CEO of Aston Martin Performance Technologies, explained that Alonso’s presence in the team was never a discussion point with Honda despite the history between them.
“No, it wasn't,” he said. “Clearly Fernando's doing a great job in the team, and we are delighted to have him as part of our team. He's making a great contribution both on and off the track.
Source: Autosport