Honda-backed Aston Martin faces Barcelona GP setback as Stroll retires; upcoming power‑unit rules may help

At the Barcelona Grand Prix, Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll retired early after a gearbox failure, forcing the team to end his race. Team‑mate Fernando Alonso, who started from the pit lane due to a power‑unit component change, was able to climb through the field in the final stages.

Separately, the FIA has agreed to modify the Formula 1 power‑unit regulations from 2027, raising internal‑combustion engine output and reducing electric‑motor contribution. Former Honda engineer Asaki Taiyou says the shift – moving the output ratio from the current 50‑50 split toward about 60‑40 by 2028 – should be favourable for Honda’s future performance in the sport.