Honda keen on future reunion with Verstappen after Red Bull split

Honda Racing Corporation president Koji Watanabe has made clear that the Japanese manufacturer remains hopeful of partnering with Max Verstappen again in the future, even as its current relationship with Red Bull nears an end.

Since joining forces in 2019, Honda and Red Bull have enjoyed extraordinary success, claiming 59 race victories and putting Verstappen on course to secure a fourth consecutive Drivers’ title.

Next season, Red Bull will transition to its own powertrain, developed in-house in collaboration with Ford in line with the sport’s overhauled regulations for 2026, while Honda will shift its focus to a new works partnership with Aston Martin.

Speculation surrounding Verstappen’s long-term future has surfaced recently amid Red Bull’s uneven start to the current campaign, with rumors linking the Dutchman to a blockbuster move to Aston Martin – a suggestion the Silverstone outfit has since denied.

Nevertheless, Watanabe has publicly expressed Honda’s admiration for Verstappen and the company’s desire to reunite with the Dutchman at some point in the future.

“First of all, we will do everything we can to help him win his fifth world title this year,” Watanabe told De Telegraaf. “And then our focus will be on our partnership with Aston Martin.

“But I have to say honestly that I hope that there will be another opportunity for Honda to work with Max Verstappen. I sincerely hope so.”

Mutual Respect Between Honda and Verstappen

In addition to praising Verstappen’s immense driving talent, Watanabe also highlighted the deep respect Honda’s engineers have for the reigning World Champion, citing his clear and positive communication style.

“I have spoken to him many times and he has always been positive about our attitude and mentality,” Watanabe added.

“Max is also very good at communicating with the Honda engineers.

“He talks clearly to them and that has ensured that the engineers have become fans of him and that they are very dedicated.

“People often see the sportsman, but I also have deep respect for Max as a person.”

Verstappen himself was equally complimentary about Honda’s contribution to his career, offering heartfelt praise after securing an emotional victory at Suzuka during Honda’s final home race as Red Bull’s engine supplier.

“Honestly, the relationship that we’ve had with Honda has been amazing,” Verstappen said post-race at Suzuka, quoted by Motorsport Week.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time with them – how they also work, how professional they are and how dedicated they are. They’ve given me so much.

“Together we’ve won four Drivers’ Championships and two Constructors’ [titles].
It’s been unbelievable and also, of course, something you’ll never forget.”

As Honda prepares for a new chapter with Aston Martin and Verstappen evaluates his future options, the bond between the driver and the Japanese marque remains strong – and the door is firmly open for a reunion down the line.

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