Honda open to F1 return in the future

Although Honda are preparing to leave F1 following the conclusion of the 2021 season, the Japanese manufacturer could return to the sport in the future if it aligns with the company's vision.

Honda currently supply Red Bull and AlphaTauri with engines, but they are departing in order to focus on carbon neutral technology. However, Director of Motorsport, Masaya, Nagai says the door isn't closed on a return to F1.

"The power source is changing [in 2025 or 2026]," Nagai told Motorsport.com. "The way of racing can also change through carbon neutral development. If that suits us, we may consider participating again by then.

"That moment can always come, but it's not an issue at the moment."

Honda are in the thick of the World Championship fight thanks to the efforts of Red Bull and Max Verstappen, however Nagai says the manufacturer aren't reconsidering their decision to leave F1.

"Our ideas haven't changed, so we won't reconsider our withdrawal," Nagai added. "That is why everyone is very excited about this season, and I think that is why we have been able to achieve the results we have.

"Besides, the season isn't over yet. We want to race without regrets, that's the main thing."

Red Bull will take on the running of Honda's power units from January 2022 when F1 introduces a freeze on power unit development for three years.

RacingNews365.com recently spoke exclusively to Red Bull's Helmut Marko and Honda's Masashi Yamamoto about how the newly-formed Red Bull Powertrains will work from next year, following Honda's exit.