Honda Deployed ADUO Update Secretly as Aston Martin Addresses Ocon Rumour

Honda concealed a second ADUO update for its power unit as Aston Martin addressed rumors surrounding Esteban Ocon. When the FIA announced that Honda was granted two Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) for the 2026 F1 season, the Japanese manufacturer revealed they would only utilize one of them during the Zandvoort Grand Prix.

Upon arrival in Zandvoort, they deployed a Spec 2 power unit, initially intending it to be the final update. However, Honda's chief engineer, Shintaro Orihara, later revealed a second update during a media chat at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

The update focused on the turbocharger, which was first introduced to Lance Stroll at the Spanish GP in Madrid and subsequently to Fernando Alonso at the Azerbaijan GP in Baku. Honda aimed to improve driveability, even though they had previously stated they would only implement one update in 2026. Orihara explained the decision during the Bahrain GP, stating that the update targeted small performance gains, particularly in boost following, which significantly impacts driveability.

Orihara emphasized that while the improvement was minor, it provided a slight gain in energy management, helping to compensate for any engine torque lag that would otherwise require additional use of the Motor Generator Unit-Kinetic (MGU-K). Despite acknowledging that the enhancement was small, Orihara remained committed to seeking further small improvements. Honda also noted that any subsequent power unit updates would occur during the 2027 F1 season, in accordance with FIA regulations.

Lance Stroll confirmed that their Honda power unit remains two seconds behind their F1 competitors. Despite this challenge, Stroll expressed optimism, stating that the team has a clear direction for car development. However, he admitted that the engine remains a significant weakness, as places like Baku and Monza, where engine power is crucial, currently hinder the team's progress.

Stroll emphasized that the race drivers' confirmation was their first priority, with reserve drivers and subsequent developments taking a backseat.