Not only Ferrari and Mercedes: another team aims for a top-level engine in 2026 F1 season. Alongside Ferrari and Mercedes, Aston Martin could also compete with a top-level power unit in 2026.

In addition to Ferrari and Mercedes, another Formula 1 team could soon join the fight for engine supremacy when the new regulations come into force in 2026. One of the biggest questions ahead of the new era concerns the power units that will drive the next generation of F1 cars. The engine will play a key role under the revised technical framework, and while Ferrari and Mercedes have long been considered the benchmark manufacturers, a third contender is ready to challenge them.

A former Ferrari engineer reveals the potential of another team

That team is Aston Martin, as revealed by former Ferrari technical director Enrico Cardile, who is now deeply involved in the British outfit’s ambitious project. The team owned by Lawrence Stroll will be powered by Honda, marking the Japanese manufacturer’s official return to Formula 1 after its successful partnership with Red Bull. According to Enrico Cardile, the collaboration between Aston Martin and Honda is already showing great promise, with both sides committed to building a world-class engine capable of competing for championships.

“While designing the engine for next year, Honda is focusing solely on meeting our requirements,” Enrico Cardile explained. “Not having other customer teams is definitely an advantage for us, as it allows them to dedicate more time and resources to development.” His words underline how Aston Martin will benefit from a fully bespoke approach, something that could give the team a unique edge when the new power units debut.

Enrico Cardile also praised the attitude and dedication of the Japanese manufacturer. “Their commitment and approach have impressed me in particular,” he said. “Honda is showing great openness and a strong willingness to collaborate in order to meet our specific needs.”

With the 2026 season marking a new chapter in Formula 1’s hybrid era, Aston Martin’s partnership with Honda could prove to be a decisive move. While Ferrari and Mercedes are expected to remain at the top of the power unit battle, the team from Silverstone seems determined to join that elite group — aiming to fight not only for podiums but also for victories and potentially world titles in the seasons to come.