Toyota has firmly denied any intentions to return to Formula 1 as a power unit supplier, despite its recent collaboration with Haas. The Japanese automotive giant, known for its previous F1 endeavors, is now involved in a technical partnership aimed at bolstering Haas’ capabilities, but insists it has no plans for deeper engagement in the sport.
Currently, Haas relies on Ferrari for its power unit, gearbox, and suspension through a long-standing partnership. The addition of Toyota as a technical partner is designed to strengthen Haas’ infrastructure and resources rather than signal a future entry by Toyota into F1 as a powertrain provider. Masaya Kaji, project manager for Toyota Gazoo Racing, made it clear that while the company is stepping up its involvement with Haas, this does not indicate any interest in returning as a power unit supplier.
“We have no plan to have a team in Formula 1,” Kaji stated. “At this moment, collaborating with Haas is our best option. As for supplying power units, there is no plan to enter that area at this time.”
Kaji revealed that Toyota had considered other teams for a partnership but found Haas to be the best fit due to its compatible objectives and the leadership of team principal Ayao Komatsu. As part of the collaboration, Toyota will assist Haas in installing a simulator at their Banbury base and participate in a Testing of Previous Car (TPC) program to aid in development.
“We currently have relationships with McLaren, through Ryo Hirakawa, and some other teams, but Haas and Komatsu-san emerged as the best partner. Our strengths and weaknesses align well, and we see an opportunity to grow together,” Kaji explained. “We can provide simulator services, including hardware and software support, and assist with the TPC program. Our engineers are highly skilled in simulation technology from our experience in WEC and customer programs, and we are confident we can contribute significantly.”
The TPC initiative will also allow Toyota drivers to gain experience in Formula 1 machinery. Komatsu acknowledged that this partnership could potentially extend to a reserve driver role, creating opportunities for Toyota’s talent.
“That’s definitely a possibility we’re open to,” Komatsu said. “For example, for next year’s reserve driver, we haven’t had discussions with Ferrari’s Fred Vasseur yet, but any driver—whether affiliated with Toyota or not—will be chosen based on merit. We are not considering pay drivers; we are focused on performance. So, while no decisions have been made, we’re keeping all options open for the reserve driver role based on competence.”
With Toyota remaining firm on its stance, the partnership clearly focuses on technical development rather than a return to team ownership or power unit supply, reflecting a cautious but strategic approach in its renewed involvement with F1.
