Exciting rumors are swirling around Toyota’s potential return to Formula 1, and recent events have added fuel to the fire.
- Toyota Manager Masaya Kaji was spotted in the Haas garage at the British Grand Prix, sparking speculation of a partnership.
- Reports suggest that Toyota could be eyeing a collaboration with Haas for chassis components, alongside Dallara.
- The partnership might begin with a sponsorship, similar to the Sauber-Alfa Romeo relationship.
- A full takeover or engine development by Toyota in the future is not entirely out of the question.
Rumors about Toyota’s return to Formula 1 have recently been invigorated following the presence of Toyota Gazoo Racing manager Masaya Kaji in the Haas garage during the British Grand Prix. This sighting was significant as it was the first tangible indication of Toyota’s interest in collaborating with Haas. Kaji was seen watching Nico Hulkenberg secure a solid sixth place, hinting at a potential budding partnership between the two entities.
According to reports from Formula.hu and Racingnews365.com, Toyota might partner with Haas in producing chassis components for the team’s F1 cars. This collaboration could see Haas leveraging Toyota’s wind tunnel in Cologne, which would be a strategic advantage. However, while building their own engines isn’t currently in the cards, Toyota hasn’t ruled out this prospect entirely for the future.
Haas has remained silent on this speculation, neither confirming nor denying any such partnership. Yet, the presence of Masaya Kaji at the race implies that discussions may be further along than initially perceived. This collaboration could start with a sponsorship deal, much like what Sauber and Alfa Romeo had in recent years.
Looking ahead, the Hungarian publication Formula.hu suggests that Toyota’s involvement with Haas might deepen by 2025. Initially, the chassis production may be partially or fully transferred to Toyota Gazoo Racing’s headquarters in Cologne. Despite these changes, the engine will continue to be Ferrari-powered until at least 2028, under the existing contract.
While the full acquisition of Haas by Toyota remains speculative, it adds an interesting layer to Toyota’s potential re-entry into F1. Previously hesitant, Toyota’s recent movements hint at more serious considerations towards a comeback. As Kazuki Nakajima, Toyota Gazoo Racing Europe vice chairman, stated last season, there are always possibilities for the future.
The intrigue around Toyota’s possible return to Formula 1 is mounting, with the Haas garage visit adding a fascinating twist.
