Vasselon Handed New “Strategic” Global Toyota Role

Toyota Gazoo Racing has announced the creation of a “strategic new role” in global motorsport for Pascal Vasselon, following the Frenchman’s departure as the technical boss of its European division.

Last month, it was announced that Vasselon would be standing down from his position as spearhead of the multi FIA World Endurance Championship title-winning outfit, with David Floury replacing him as technical director ahead of the new season.

Now it has been confirmed that Vasselon, who initially joined what is now known as Toyota Gazoo Racing Europe in 2005, has taken on a new role of Vice President TGR Strategic Motorsport Development, effective immediately.

This will involve the Japanese manufacturer’s motorsport endeavors using new technologies, including hydrogen.

Toyota has previously made clear its ambitions to eventually race in the 24 Hours of Le Mans with hydrogen power, having pioneered the use of combustion-based hydrogen technology in the Japanese Super Taikyu series.

A statement released by Toyota on Thursday said that Vasselon’s new role “sees him contribute to the planning and development of future global motorsport activities, with a focus on carbon neutrality and hydrogen technology”, adding he will represent the marque during discussions with “relevant governing bodies around the world.”

Vasselon will work alongside Masaya Kaji, the general manager of Toyota Gazoo Racing in Japan, in his new role.

The statement also officially confirms Floury in the role of TGR-E technical director, which it said “he has fulfilled on [an] acting basis since early January.”