Toyota Considering Ogier for Bahrain Rookie Test

Photo: Toyota

Seven-time FIA World Rally Champion Sebastien Ogier could make his Hypercar debut in November’s FIA World Endurance Championship rookie test according to Toyota Gazoo Racing Europe technical director Pascal Vasselon.

The Frenchman, who drives for the Japanese manufacturer in the WRC, has expressed interest in circuit racing amid his plans for a scaled-back rally program in 2022.

Vasselon said: “It’s something we are considering. It’s not fully confirmed but we are considering having him running the rookie test.

“It’s moving closer to confirmation but it’s not fully confirmed yet.”

Ogier, who joined Toyota Gazoo Racing in 2020, is known to have experience in Toyota’s LMP1 simulator from last year, although it’s unclear if he has gained any virtual mileage in the manufacturer’s new GR010 Hybrid.

Vasselon said that a race program for the 37-year-old has not been discussed yet and has ruled out Toyota running a third car next year.

“What we are discussing is the rookie test,” he said. “There is no further commitment or discussion at the moment.”

Ogier could follow in the footsteps of fellow rally champions Sebastien Loeb and the late Colin McRae in making sports car racing outings, notably at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The rookie test is scheduled for Sun. Nov. 7, the day after the season-ending 8 Hours of Bahrain.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John