What Does The Partner Mean For Haas F1, Ferrari & More
Toyota is making a dramatic return to Formula 1 for the first time since 2009, stepping back into the sport through a technical collaboration with the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team. This multi-year partnership, effective immediately, unites Haas with Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR), Toyota’s prestigious motorsport and R&D division.
Toyota’s previous tenure in Formula 1 spanned eight seasons, during which the automaker achieved 13 podium finishes and earned a best result of fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship. Although Toyota had exited the sport as a works team, this strategic partnership allows the manufacturer to re-enter the F1 arena by contributing technical and manufacturing expertise, while Haas benefits from a deeper well of resources as it aims to enhance its competitive edge.
The agreement doesn’t alter Haas’ existing collaboration with Ferrari, which began when Haas first joined the sport in 2016. Instead, Toyota’s involvement will supplement Ferrari’s support, allowing Haas to draw on the strengths of two industry powerhouses.
“This partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing is a pivotal moment for our team,” said Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu. “Working with a world leader in automotive technology presents an incredible opportunity to leverage their manufacturing capabilities and accelerate our development.”
Through this collaboration, TGR will offer Haas design and technical support, while Haas provides Toyota with critical commercial exposure in Formula 1. The symbiotic relationship is aimed at boosting Haas’ standing in the highly competitive world of F1 while offering Toyota a platform to hone its engineering prowess.
For Toyota, the decision to return to F1 is part of a broader strategy to advance its technological capabilities. President of Gazoo Racing Company, Tomoya Takahashi, emphasized the dual benefits of the deal: “By collaborating with Haas, we aim to develop not only drivers and engineers but also to strengthen both organizations’ performance at the pinnacle of motorsports.”
The partnership, which was unveiled at the iconic Fuji International Speedway, will see TGR’s branding prominently displayed on Haas’ VF-24 cars starting at the upcoming United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas. As Haas currently sits seventh in the Constructors’ Championship, the deal injects fresh momentum into the team’s pursuit of better results.
Both Haas and Toyota are hopeful that their combined efforts will lead to greater success on the track and beyond, signaling a new chapter in Toyota’s storied F1 journey.
IMAGES: Toyota & F1
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