Verstappen regrets Honda situation: "It's a shame"

Max Verstappen expresses his disappointment that Red Bull Racing and Honda cannot continue their successful partnership, as he tells the Dutch branch of Motorsport.com. There is a logical reason behind this situation, as Honda originally planned to exit Formula 1 after 2021. However, they will return to the sport with Aston Martin in 2026, despite still providing support to Red Bull after their split at the end of 2021.

"It's a bit unfortunate for us how things played out," Verstappen says. "A few years ago, Honda said they were quitting, and then Red Bull set up its own engine facility. A few years later, they say, 'Oh, we're going to continue,' but unfortunately, by that time, we couldn't continue working together because we had already progressed so far in building our own engine department. It's a shame, I would say."

Verstappen and Red Bull have good relationship with Honda

Verstappen and Red Bull still have a good relationship with Honda. "I personally enjoy working with those people a lot. So, it's naturally disappointing to see them go to Aston Martin, although we are also looking forward to our own project with Ford. For Aston Martin, it's definitely good news. We all know how good the Honda engine is, but it is what it is."

However, for Verstappen, it doesn't change the fact that he regrets the situation. "Although, with the way things have gone, it was somewhat to be expected. When they left, we already had a sort of farewell. By the way, I am very happy for all the people working for Honda in Formula 1. It's good that they can at least remain in the sport, but personally, I am sad to see them go."