Honda president expresses hope for future partnership with Max Verstappen

The president of Honda Racing Corporation, Koji Watanabe, once again expressed his desire to team up with Max Verstappen again in the future, even after the end of cooperation with Red Bull this year.

Verstappen has recorded an incredible 59 victories since Honda began working with Red Bull in 2019, leading him to the last four world titles.

However, the relationship between the Japanese manufacturer and Red Bull ends at the end of this season, as Honda starts a new partnership with Aston Martin from 2026.

On the other hand, Red Bull will assemble its own powertrain according to the new rules that come into force next season, with the support of the American car giant Ford.

There have also been rumors that Verstappen may not stay at Red Bull until the end of his contract, which runs until 2028, given their volatile struggles this season.

Verstappen, whose current contract contains an exit clause, has been linked with a possible move to Aston Martin, who are said to be preparing a staggering €300m offer.

The Silverstone team quickly denied those rumors, but Watanabe clearly expressed Honda's desire to work with Verstappen again 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 the partnership with Aston Martin."

"But I have to honestly say that I hope that there will be another opportunity for Honda to work with Max Verstappen again. I sincerely hope so," he pointed out.

Honda praises Verstappen's approach

In addition to his undisputed driving skills, Watanabe also praised the constructive way in which Verstappen communicates with the Japanese power unit manufacturer.

"I spoke to him many times and he was always positive about our attitude and mentality," he added. "Max also communicates very well with Honda engineers."

"He speaks clearly to them, which has led to the engineers becoming big fans of him and being extremely dedicated. People often see the athlete, but I also have a deep respect for Max as a person."

Verstappen praises Honda

Verstappen reciprocated the same emotions by recalling the partnership, after taking an emotional victory at Red Bull's final race with Honda in Japan earlier this month.

"Honestly, the relationship we had with Honda was incredible," Verstappen told the media after the Suzuka race.

"I really enjoyed working with them - how they operate, how professional and dedicated they are. They gave me a lot."

"Together we won four world championships and two constructors' championships. It was incredible, and of course, something I will never forget."