Honda Racing Corporation President Koji Watanabe has issued a defiant video message on social media, insisting that the Japanese manufacturer "will never give up" after its shocking start.
It has been a disastrous opening seven rounds for Honda and its partnership with Aston Martin, with the duo rooted to the back of the grid.
Not only has Honda experienced regular and significant reliability issues, but its internal combustion engine is also expected to be ranked as the worst on the grid.
Just one point has been scored in 2026, courtesy of a remarkable drive by Fernando Alonso in the Monaco Grand Prix, a race that became one of survival.
Finishing races has been a real problem for Lance Stroll and Alonso, who have suffered a combined eight retirements already this season.
Honda has acknowledged how poorly it has started under the new power unit regulations, and, in a video message on X, Watanabe outlined the manufacturer's determination to make progress.
In a video on social media, Watanabe said: "Thank you for your continued support. The start of the 2026 season has been very challenging for us. The current position is not where we want to be, however, in difficult times we rely on the challenging spirit that is part of Honda and HRC DNA.
"In 2015 we also faced a tough start, but we became stronger by never giving up. Everyone in the team continues to work hard to improve our 2026 power unit. Our relationship with Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 team is growing stronger every day.
"The recent Spanish Grand Prix we had a team gathering which gave us the great opportunity to communicate openly and strengthen our trust. I also enjoyed speaking directly with many members of the team.
"As one team, we will continue to work hard together, building on this strong foundation. We will never give up, no matter what. We understand that the results so far have been frustrating, and we share that feeling.
"However, we believe that our hard work will pay off, and we will keep pushing forward. Please keep supporting us and fighting together with us."
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