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Honda Engine Vibration Threatens F1 Drivers' Health

BBC Sport •
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Aston Martin team principal Adrian Newey has revealed serious health concerns about Honda's F1 power units, with drivers experiencing nerve damage risks from excessive vibrations. Lance Stroll can only complete 15 laps before risking permanent hand damage, while Fernando Alonso faces similar issues after 25 laps. The problem stems from vibrations transmitted through the chassis to the steering wheel.

Honda F1 boss Koji Watanabe acknowledged the severity, stating they won't know if recent countermeasures are effective until Friday's practice sessions. While the team has addressed battery failures in the hybrid system, vibrations continue affecting the chassis and steering. The issue compounds existing performance deficits, with Honda's electrical motor reportedly 50kW down on power, though Watanabe declined to confirm these figures.

The timing couldn't be worse for Aston Martin, already struggling with chassis development delays. Newey admitted the team is four months behind rivals in aerodynamic development and ranks fifth among teams. The vibration crisis forces severe race strategy limitations until Honda resolves the fundamental engine design flaws that have plagued them throughout pre-season testing.