Honda boss saw a passionate Verstappen be 'truly great' in Japan

14:30, 07 Apr

byNorberto Mujica

Koji Watanabe, the president of Honda Racing, admits to being moved by 'a truly great' Max Verstappen at the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix.

The Red Bull Racing driver gifted the helmet he wore during the race to Watanabe, the president of HRC (Honda Racing) after the race at Suzuka. Although there is still almost a full season to race in Formula 1, a farewell gift from Verstappen in nature, marking a perfect afternoon, the Japanese boss says.

"Everything was perfect and he achieved his fourth consecutive victory in Suzuka. I am truly happy and grateful that he won this race in Suzuka, the last race of our partnership with Red Bull. I think this partnership was very valuable", said Watanabe to Autosport.web.

'Truly great Verstappen at Suzuka'

Watanabe saw passion as the motor propelling Verstappen's shocking pole on Saturday and the subsequent win on Sunday, pinpointing the fuel that ignited it. "That's right. He was not only very skilled, he also seemed to drive with passion."

"He was very aware that this was his last race at Suzuka with Honda, and he had that in mind from the beginning, so I think that passion was reflected in his driving. We were truly moved when we saw him, and thought he was truly great."

Next season, Honda faces a new challenge, as the engine partner of Aston Martin - and no longer of Red Bull. Watanabe hopes that Verstappen will not win in 2026. "Then Red Bull will be our enemy. They are very strong rivals, so I would like to become a team that Red Bull will be afraid of."