Yuki Tsunoda will drive the Honda RA272, its first victorious Formula 1 car, at the 2025 Mexican Grand Prix, in a commemorative demonstration run.
Tsunoda will take the wheel of the classic car to pay homage to Richie Ginther’s victory in the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix. The victory was the American’s first and only in F1, and the first of many for Honda.
The RA272 was Honda’s car during its second season as a constructor in F1. The car, powered by a 1.5-litre V12 and appearing diminutive compared to modern machines, finished sixth in that season’s Constructors’ Championship.
Red Bull’s all-white livery at the 2025 Japanese GP was to pay homage to the Japanese marque‘s classic challenger, marking the final year of collaboration between the pair.
Speaking on his pride to be driving such a significant car in the history of Japanese motorsport, Tsunoda describes the opportunity as an “honour.”
“It is an honor to drive the RA272 at the special place where Honda achieved its first F1 victory. Driving on the track where the RA272 pioneered Japanese motorsports history 60 years ago is a particularly special and deeply moving experience.
“With Honda’s history of challenges in my heart, I want to give fans a drive that conveys dreams and passion.”
Honda overjoyed to see Tsunoda drive classic machine
Koji Watanabe, President of Honda Racing Corporation, added: “It is a tremendous pleasure that the RA272 will drive again in Mexico, at the same place Honda achieved its first victory, 60 years ago in 1965.
“Furthermore, having Tsunoda, a driver representing Japan in F1, pilot this historic car holds great significance.
“We believe this will be a precious opportunity to reflect on Honda’s history of challenge while sharing dreams and hopes for the future with our fans.”
Honda have enjoyed an incredible and storied history in F1. Most notably, the manufacturer was one half of the legendary McLaren Honda pairing, who propelled Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost to multiple Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships. Also, their assistance with Red Bull Powertrains links them to Max Verstappen’s recent dominance.
Having previously announced their departure from F1, Honda will supply engines for Aston Martin from 2026 onwards, as Adrian Newey looks to replicate his Red Bull successes at the Silverstone-based outfit.
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