Toyota Formalizes WEC Return

Photo: James Moy/Toyota

Toyota Gazoo Racing has formalized its return to the FIA World Endurance Championship, having reaffirmed its commitment to endurance racing.

The news comes following comments from LMP1 team president Hisatake Murata during the WEC’s end-of-season awards ceremony in Bahrain last month, confirming the Japanese manufacturer’s return for the 2018/19 ‘Super Season.’

Toyota, however, had not formally communicated its commitment until Tuesday, following the publication of the LMP1 regulations for next season.

“Toyota Gazoo Racing will continue to race in this competition again next season,” said Toyota Motor Corporation President Akio Toyoda.

“And, from here on as well, so that we will be able to provide our customers with cars that are fun to drive and cars that they want to let keep on going, we will continue to build on our skills and technology gained thus far. ”

Further program details, including driver lineups, are expected to be announced next month.

It’s understood the team will run two cars for the full season, with a third entry for the 24 Hours of Le Mans unlikely, according to technical director Pascal Vasselon.

Toyota will compete alongside a growing number of LMP1 privateers in a combined class, which could now reach double digits following confirmation of Rebellion Racing’s return to the top class next season.

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