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Haas F1 issues bold warning to Toyota: no influence on driver lineup allowed

Harry Stone by Harry Stone
December 28, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
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Haas F1 issues bold warning to Toyota: no influence on driver lineup allowed

Formula One F1 - Belgian Grand Prix - Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Stavelot, Belgium - July 26, 2025 Haas' Esteban Ocon in action during qualifying REUTERS/Manon Cruz/Pool

Haas F1 Issues Stern Warning to Toyota: No Influence Over Driver Selection!

In a dramatic declaration that could reshape the dynamics of Formula 1, Haas F1 team principal Ayao Komatsu has firmly warned Toyota against any attempts to meddle with the team’s driver lineup. As Toyota makes its much-anticipated return to the F1 arena for the first time since 2009, the stakes are higher than ever. The Japanese automotive powerhouse has entered into a strategic partnership with Haas, aimed at sharing invaluable expertise and resources, yet Komatsu is making one thing crystal clear: driver selection is non-negotiable!

The partnership promises to unlock a treasure trove of design, manufacturing, and technical support that Haas hopes will enhance their performance on the track. However, Toyota’s role is strictly advisory, and any aspirations of influencing driver choices will be met with staunch resistance. Komatsu emphasized, “The main thing is, you know, anybody who gets in our race car has to be the best choice in terms of performance.” This is a bold statement that underscores Haas’s commitment to meritocracy over favoritism.

While there is a pool of talented Japanese drivers eager for a shot in F2, including the illustrious Super Formula champion Ayumu Iwasa and the recently dismissed Red Bull driver Yuki Tsunoda, Haas is currently focused on their formidable duo: the promising Oliver Bearman and the seasoned Esteban Ocon. With such talent already in their ranks, the last thing Haas needs is external pressure to make decisions that could compromise performance.

Komatsu didn’t hold back, addressing the elephant in the room by saying, “Even from Akio-san [Akio Toyoda, Toyota chairman], even though he wanted, let’s say, a Japanese driver from his academy, it becomes a joke if we’re putting that driver when he’s not good enough, right?” His message is loud and clear: performance reigns supreme, and Haas will not be swayed by financial muscle or nationalistic pride.

Meanwhile, the F1 landscape is buzzing with rumors surrounding another Japanese manufacturer, Honda, who is set to supply power units to Aston Martin starting in 2026. With both of Aston Martin’s current drivers potentially out of contract by then, could this open the door for a Tsunoda comeback? The team’s future, especially with the aging Fernando Alonso and the inconsistent Lance Stroll, could lead to a complete overhaul of their driver lineup, and Tsunoda could be in the running.

As the 2024 season unfolds with tensions simmering and alliances forming, one thing is certain: Haas F1 is ready to stand its ground. The message to Toyota is clear: focus on the partnership’s strengths and leave the driver decisions to those who know best. The world of Formula 1 is watching closely—who will emerge victorious in this high-stakes game of speed, strategy, and power?

Tags: 1958-formula-1-season2025-toyota-usa-track-and-field-championshipsAston Martinayao-komatsusayumu-iwasa-2Haas F1 Teamyuki-tsunodas
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