Floury Replaces Vasselon as Toyota Technical Director

Toyota Gazoo Racing has appointed David Floury as its new technical director as Pascal Vasselon’s day-to-day involvements are “temporarily paused” as part of a management reshuffle for the frontrunning FIA World Endurance Championship operation.

Floury previously served as deputy technical director and general manager for chassis and powertrain development with the Japanese manufacturer, joining in 2022 after a previous stint with ORECA.

He replaces longtime technical director Vasselon, who has been a cornerstone in Toyota’s WEC success since it joined the championship in 2012. Under Vasselon’s leadership, Toyota secured five consecutive 24 Hours of Le Mans victories and six manufacturer’s world titles.

A statement issued by Toyota indicates that Vasselon will remain part of the Toyota organization, but that he has temporarily been removed from day-to-day operations.

The changes come as Toyota leadership implements an “an updated top management organisation” through a joint effort by president Masato Hirai, vice chairman Kazuki Nakajima and managing director Rob Leupen.

“A process is underway to further develop an efficient management organization and empower the next generation of leaders,” the statement reads.

“David Floury has accepted a role as acting Technical Director, reporting to Rob Leupen. The positions of John Litjens and Norio Aoki, respective project leaders of WEC and WRC Engine, are unchanged and both will now report to David Floury.

“Pascal Vasselon’s role in day-to-day operations is temporarily paused, although TGR-E expects him to resume an active role soon, contributing his knowledge and experience to enhance TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s strategic approach to global motorsport.

“Further information will be communicated at the conclusion of the process.”