Honda IndyCar Sr. Manager takes over F1 program

Toyoharu Tanabe (L) Sr. takes over Honda's F1 program

TOKYO, Japan – Preparing for the start of a new partnership with Scuderia Toro Rosso (Toro Rosso) in the FIA^* Formula One World Championship (F1), Honda will make changes to its F1 project team structure.

Under the new structure, an Operating Officer in charge of HRD Sakura will oversee research and development and the overall operation of races and testing.

In the meantime, Honda created a new position, F1 Technical Director, who will concentrate on directing the team at the spot of racing and testing.

Toyoharu Tanabe will assume the responsibility as the first F1 Technical Director, and the position of Head of Formula 1 Project will be eliminated.

Toyoharu TANABE:

Yusuke HASEGAWA:

• Comment by Katsuhide Moriyama, Chief Officer for Brand and Communication Operations, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

“In the past, the Head of F1 Project assumed responsibility in both technological development and directing the team at the spot of racing. By separating these areas of responsibility, we will evolve our structure so that both the development team and racing/testing team can assume their respective responsibilities more speedily. By ensuring both the development team and racing team soundly fulfill their respective roles, Honda will continue its challenges so that fans can enjoy seeing Toro Rosso-Honda competing at the top level without further delay. Thank you for your continuous support.“

Profile of Toyoharu TANABE:

* Federation Internationale de l’Automobile