SHERIDAN, WYOMING – August 13, 2024 – Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is set to mark a significant milestone in its illustrious motorsports history during Monterey Car Week. The company will celebrate the 60th anniversary of its inaugural Formula One entry by showcasing the iconic Honda RA272, the first Japanese-built car to win a Formula 1 Grand Prix.
A Historic Showcase at Laguna Seca
The legendary RA272, renowned for its groundbreaking engineering and powered by a transverse-mounted 1.5-liter V12 engine, will take to the track for exhibition laps at the prestigious 2024 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Honda heritage test driver Hikaru Miyagi will be at the helm, offering spectators a rare glimpse into the car's exceptional performance and historical significance.
The Spirit of Challenge: Honda's Racing Legacy
Honda's founder, Soichiro Honda, a passionate racer himself, instilled a "Challenging Spirit" within the company's DNA. This ethos has fueled Honda's relentless pursuit of excellence in motorsports, leading to numerous victories and technological breakthroughs across various racing disciplines.
From Humble Beginnings to F1 Dominance
Honda's F1 journey began in 1964 with the RA271, a car that laid the groundwork for future success. The following year, the RA272, driven by Richie Ginther, secured a historic victory at the 1965 Mexico Grand Prix, a testament to Honda's engineering prowess and unwavering determination. Over the decades, Honda engines have powered eight Formula One Drivers' Championships and set records for the most race wins in a season.
A New Era of Honda F1 Racing
As Honda looks to the future, the company is preparing for its return to Formula One in 2026 through a works partnership with the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One® Team. This collaboration will focus on developing power units that comply with the 2026 F1 regulations, which place a greater emphasis on electrical power. Honda aims to leverage its expertise in e-motor and battery technologies to achieve success in this new era of F1 racing.
A Tribute to Innovation and Perseverance
Honda's presence at Monterey Car Week serves as a powerful tribute to its six decades of racing innovation and a celebration of the "Challenging Spirit" that continues to drive the company forward. The RA272's appearance at Laguna Seca is a symbolic reminder of Honda's remarkable achievements in motorsports and its unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.
About Honda:
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is a leading force in the automotive industry, responsible for the sales, marketing, service, distribution, and export of Honda and Acura automobiles, powersports, power equipment, and marine products in the United States.
About Honda Racing Corporation USA:
Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US), formerly known as Honda Performance Development (HPD), leads all Honda and Acura high-performance racing programs in North America. With a focus on design, development, and technical support, HRC US plays a crucial role in Honda's motorsports success across various racing disciplines. The company is also actively involved in Formula One power unit development and race support for Honda's upcoming F1 endeavors.