Honda optimistic Madring will suit 2026 Aston Martin power unit better
Honda F1 chief engineer Shintaro Orihara stated that the new Madring circuit features a mixed layout that should suit the current Aston Martin power unit better than recent venues such as Monza. The team plans to apply lessons from the post-upgrade races at Zandvoort and Monza, focusing on driveability and energy management during the Spanish Grand Prix weekend.
Honda sees potential in Madring layout
Honda F1 trackside general manager and chief engineer Shintaro Orihara expressed optimism ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit. [1] He noted that the venue combines urban and permanent track elements in a mixed layout.
Orihara highlighted that driveability remains a key focus after the Spec 2 power unit introduction. The team will apply lessons from the previous two races, particularly in driveability and energy management.
Better adaptation expected
"In general, we believe that Madrid will adapt better to our package," Orihara stated in comments shared by Honda Racing F1. [2] The circuit's characteristics differ from Monza, where the Aston Martin cars struggled.
The Spanish Grand Prix marks the first visit to Madring for the Honda-powered team.
Related reading
- [1]Honda F1 se ilusiona en Madring: "Se adaptará mejor a nuestro coche" (marca). Accessed 2026-09-08.
- [2]Honda cree que Madring "se adaptará mejor" al Aston Martin (europapress). Accessed 2026-09-08.