Honda’s Historic First Formula 1 Victory: A Look Back at the RA272
Honda’s Maiden F1 Victory
On October 24, 1965, Honda etched its name into Formula 1 history. At the Mexican Grand Prix, the Japanese automaker secured its first victory in the world’s pinnacle motorsport category, thanks to driver Richie Ginther and the RA272.
“On October 24, 1965, at the F1 MEXICAN GRAND PRIX, Honda achieved victory… with driver Richie Ginther at the wheel of the RA272.”
The RA272: A Symbol of Japan’s Motorsport Beginnings
Powered by a 1.5-liter V12 engine and adorned with a white livery bearing the Japanese flag, the RA272 was more than just a race car. It symbolized Japan’s entry into the global motorsport scene. As a Honda Racing Corporation engineer explained, “The RA272 marked the beginning of Japan’s motorsport history.”
A Legacy honored 60 Years Later
Six decades on, Honda is reflecting on its challenges and victories, including the RA272. In a special program, they’ll showcase the car’s legacy with showruns at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, Monterey Car Week, and the Mexican Grand Prix.
Yasuhisa Arai, Honda’s F1 Project Leader, shares, “As we advance power unit development for our upcoming F1 entry starting in 2026, we’ll continue to hone our people and technology through these challenges.”
The Future of Honda in F1
At the 2025 Mexican Grand Prix, Japanese F1 driver Tsunoda will drive the RA272, honoring Honda’s past and looking towards its future. Honda’s return to F1 as a power unit supplier in 2026 underscores its commitment to pushing technological boundaries and delivering excitement to motorsports fans worldwide.
F1 Fans: Did you know?
Honda was also the first Japanese automaker to win an F1 race distant power unit. They did it at the 1987 Italian Grand Prix with driver Ayrton Senna and the Honda turbo engine powering a Lotus car.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Honda’s first F1 victory?
Honda’s first F1 victory was on October 24, 1965, at the Mexican Grand Prix.
Who drove the RA272 to victory?
Richie Ginther drove the RA272 to Honda’s first F1 victory.
Don’t forget to share your thoughts on this historic moment in F1 and Honda’s future! Let us know in the comments.