The veteran leader of Honda’s motorsport division under HRC, Koji Watanabe, is set to step down on January 1, 2027, making way for Keiichi Yasuda to take over.
Starting his journey with the Japanese manufacturer back in 1987, Watanabe has been a dedicated Honda staff member for decades before stepping into the role of racing division chief in 2022. During his leadership, he managed the integration of the brand’s car and motorcycle racing wings and orchestrated the reversal of their Formula 1 exit, securing a factory partnership with Aston Martin for the upcoming 2026 technical regulations.
However, Honda has formally declared that Watanabe will retire at the start of January, with Keiichi Yasuda stepping in as the incoming CEO of HRC. Yasuda currently serves as Executive Vice President and Representative Director, having earlier directed human resources for the company’s motorsport arm.
“This transition in leadership is an expected, routine realignment of personnel aimed at reinforcing our management framework amidst worldwide industry shifts, while speeding up commercial growth for the coming era,” Honda explained.
“Working alongside such incredible teammates as HRC’s president has been a true privilege,” Watanabe expressed.
“When I stepped into the role of President of the newly unified HRC in 2022, we brought our two-wheel and four-wheel racing efforts under one roof. Since that milestone, we committed to returning to Formula 1, grew our international racing footprint by transitioning HPD in America to HRC US, launched HRC UK, and focused on enhancing the global presence of the HRC brand.
Aston Martin Racing’s Fernando Alonso
Image credit: Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images
“Throughout the final three months of my leadership, I will give my absolute all, pushing for wins right up to the finish line.”
Reflecting on his upcoming appointment, Yasuda noted: “I see it as my primary duty to build upon the strong groundwork established by Watanabe.
“I want to develop this further, direct our collective efforts toward the sole objective of racing victories, and elevate HRC to greater heights.
“By utilizing my executive background leading international subsidiaries and my expertise in human resources, I intend to prioritize personal development and reinforce our team structure to secure future triumphs.”
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– The Team at Autosport.com
