Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US) is stepping into the spotlight as the official title, replacing Honda Performance Development (HPD), in a move that signifies the company’s elevated role in Honda’s global racing endeavors.
This strategic shift positions HRC US at the forefront of Honda’s worldwide motorsports activities, extending its influence to encompass the Formula One power unit development program.
In a unified effort, HRC Japan and HRC US, both distinct racing entities under Honda, are pooling their expertise and resources to fortify Honda’s overall motorsports capabilities.
Established in Japan in 1982 as Honda’s motorcycle racing arm, HRC boasts over four decades of championship racing success in prestigious global categories such as WGP/MotoGP, Superbike, Motocross, World Trial, and the Paris Dakar rally.
In 2022, HRC expanded its portfolio to include auto racing, specifically overseeing Honda’s F1 program, with dedicated centers in Sakura and Asaka focusing on auto and motorcycle racing, respectively.
HPD, founded by American Honda Motor Co., Inc. in 1993, initially geared towards competing in the IndyCar series, has a rich history spanning 30 years in various racing series such as IndyCar, IMSA, Baja Off-Road, Touring Cars, and Formula Regional America.
Notably, through HPD, Honda has clinched 280 victories out of 510 races in IndyCar competitions, including 15 wins at the iconic Indianapolis 500.
Additionally, HPD has secured 13 Drivers’ Championships and 10 Manufacturers’ Championships in multi-manufacturer competitions, showcasing Honda’s dominance in the racing arena.
Looking ahead, HRC’s auto racing development center in Japan will collaborate with the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant F1 team as the official engine supplier from 2026 onwards.
This aligns with HRC US’s involvement in Formula One power unit development and race support, coinciding with the expansion of F1 races in the U.S.
The IMSA Rolex 24 at Daytona from January 25-28, 2023, will witness the debut of the rebranded HRC US, with Acura ARX-06 prototypes proudly displaying the HRC logos in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. The transition will extend to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and other racing series as they kick off in 2024.
This strategic realignment positions Honda Racing Corporation USA as a key player in shaping the future of global motorsports, combining the strengths of HRC Japan and HRC US to propel Honda to new heights in racing excellence.
