Honda's involvement in shaping IndyCar's 2028 regulations is essential for the company to remain in the sport.

      Matt Fraver via IndyCar

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      David Salters, President of Honda Racing Corporation US, has told The Drive that the automaker's involvement in discussions regarding future IndyCar regulations is "vital" to its ongoing participation in the American open-wheel series.

      In February, both Honda and Chevrolet pledged to remain engine manufacturers in the IndyCar series for "multiple years" as part of an initiative to secure the sport's future, especially following speculation that Honda might be seeking an exit strategy (as it recently did in IMSA). The agreement stipulated that both companies would "actively participate in the development of engine and competition regulations" set to be introduced in 2028, according to IndyCar's press release at that time.

      James Gilbert via Getty

      In response to a question from The Drive about how Honda's ability to influence future IndyCar regulations affected its decision to continue racing in the series, Salters made it clear: “I believe it's critical.”

      “We need to establish a framework that ensures the series is sustainable from a manufacturer's perspective,” he stated. “We need to contribute by considering how we can advance technology.”

      However, there may be an even more significant factor: Salters pointed out that Honda must consider, “How do we ensure the long-term economic sustainability for a manufacturer?”

      “We all cherish this sport. Let’s ensure it remains viable for the future.”

      Sustainability in motorsport extends beyond environmental concerns. Salters repeatedly highlighted that it also entails the long-term affordability of competing, along with guaranteeing that technological advancements are reflected in the production vehicles that define Honda. Motorsport demands significant resources; therefore, the investment made must have uses beyond just the racing track.

      Michael L. Levitt via Getty

      Salters described it as a “balance”: “It needs to be relevant. We must be able to afford it; otherwise, the series will stop. It should be logical and sustainable over time. We also need to act responsibly; we’re working on creating more efficient solutions, conserving energy, and similar initiatives. We need to integrate all of that and develop something that works.”

      “And to IndyCar’s credit, they understand,” commented Kelvin Fu, HRC US Vice President. “They’re continuously trying to grasp what everyone wants: the fans, teams, OEMs, and suppliers. It’s a balancing act that we all navigate together. We all aim for the series' growth, 100%. That’s essential. We must secure partners to facilitate that growth. But everyone should also get what they need from the series.”

      Thus, the current discussion format relating to IndyCar's future.

      At its core, as Salters explained, the creation of regulations involves both Honda and Chevrolet generating an initial list of proposals they wish to implement or avoid in the future—primarily based on each manufacturer’s past experiences.

      The rival engine suppliers then meet to discuss these ideas together.

      “We all sit together in the same room,” Salters elaborated, “and sometimes we agree, and sometimes we argue!”

      “It’s quite reasonable. We have many individuals with extensive racing experience. We will either find common ground or diverge.”

      However, Salters noted that the ultimate decision lies with IndyCar.

      “It’s their responsibility to determine ‘okay; what do we want?’” he explained.

      Brandon Badraoui, Michael L. Levitt via Getty

      Taking the feedback from both competing manufacturers into account, IndyCar will formulate a regulatory framework that will incorporate some requests from Honda and Chevrolet. These rules will then be provided to the OEMs, who will use them as guidelines for building the power units that will drive the future of American open-wheel racing.

      Salters did not disclose any specifics about the discussions regarding the 2028 regulations; however, he confirmed that conversations are ongoing, and the deadline for finalizing those regulations “should be about now”—though his tone suggested there are still crucial aspects to finalize before any announcement.

      The overall sentiment is one of continuity and progress. Salters took a moment to commend the efforts of IndyCar, Fox, and various series partners that have fueled the growing interest in the series, which has encouraged the automaker to extend its contract with IndyCar moving forward.

      Michael L. Levitt via Getty

      “We are passionate about IndyCar,” Salters expressed. “We’ve been involved for over 30 years. We have an extensive history in IndyCar.” Furthermore, having a role in the future technological development of the sport will keep Honda engaged even longer.

      Additionally, it’s a bonus that on Sunday, as Felix Rosenqvist crossed the yard of bricks ahead of his competitors, Honda secured another 500 victory, marking its 17th win.

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