Yuki Tsunoda, the Red Bull Formula 1 driver, will race Honda’s legendary RA272 during the 2025 Mexican Grand Prix weekend, commemorating the 60th anniversary of Honda’s inaugural victory in Formula 1. This event celebrates the milestone of the Japanese manufacturer’s breakthrough at the Mexican Grand Prix in 1965.
Honoring Honda’s Milestone with a Japanese Talent Behind the Wheel
The RA272 notably secured Honda’s first win at the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix with American racer Richie Ginther driving, marking his sole triumph in the series. Ginther started third on the grid and was joined on the podium by fellow American Dan Gurney and British driver Mike Spence. Now, 60 years later, Tsunoda, a representative of Japan on the F1 grid, will pay tribute to this historic achievement at the same venue.
Koji Watanabe, President of Honda Racing Corporation, emphasized the significance of this connection:
“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.”
Tsunoda Reflects on His Experience Driving the RA272
Having been supported by Honda since 2016, Tsunoda previously took the RA272 out during the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where he shared his impressions of driving the classic car. The 25-year-old driver explained:
“It is an honour to drive the RA272 at the special place where Honda achieved its first F1 victory,”
expressing his pride and connection to the brand’s history. He added,
“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.”
Tsunoda described his cautious initial approach, saying,
“Before the start of the hill-climb, I was advised to be considerate and gentle with the car, so I drove a little too carefully so as not to stall it when taking off.”
He continued,
“I revved the engine up to 9,500 rpm or 10,000 rpm, and the pleasant vibration seemed to sink into my bones. The directness of the car and the sense of being as one are things that cannot be experienced in modern cars, and I really enjoyed it, but it was only the first run, so I can’t say that I enjoyed it to the fullest. I am looking forward to the second run.”
Significance of the Event and What Lies Ahead
This opportunity for Tsunoda to pilot the RA272 at the Mexican Grand Prix reflects both a celebration of Honda’s rich motorsport heritage and the ongoing connection between the Japanese marque and Formula 1. It highlights the enduring passion and determination within Honda Racing Corporation to honor past triumphs while inspiring fans and future generations. As Tsunoda carries the legacy of both the driver and the machine forward, enthusiasts eagerly anticipate his performance on the legendary track where Honda first made its mark in F1 history.
