Toyota to Not Appeal 6H Silverstone Exclusion

Toyota Gazoo Racing will not appeal the stewards’ decision that saw both its LMP1 cars disqualified from the Six Hours of Silverstone.

Both Toyota TS050 Hybrids were excluded from Sunday’s six-hour contest after each failed a skid block deflection test in post-race scrutineering.

The Japanese manufacturer had a right to appeal the decision but a statement from company president Akio Toyoda suggested it would not be pursuing the matter further.

A Toyota spokesperson later confirmed to Sportscar365 that the team had decided not to take action.

“All our drivers drove our cars with their full power and the fight for victory was truly exciting for the fans so I truly feel disappointed to lose the result,” said Toyoda.

“I would like to apologize to the six drivers that we could not make a car with which they can win even though they drove all out.

“On the other hand, I would also like to thank our drivers for their trust in our cars and for pushing to the limit, as this meant we could learn about improvements which can be made. 

“We will make our cars even stronger for the next race so that the drivers can drive all out again at Fuji Speedway and fight for another one-two victory to strengthen our challenge for the World Championship.”

The stewards’ decision handed a 1-2 result to Rebellion Racing, marking the first time a privateer team has won outright in the FIA World Endurance Championship.

It also means Rebellion drivers and Silverstone winners Gustavo Menezes, Mathias Beche and Thomas Laurent are now only two points off Fernando Alonso, Sebastien Buemi and Kazuki Nakajima in the standings.