In a firm statement at the Mexico City Grand Prix, Haas F1’s Ayao Komatsu dismissed speculation of a potential sale to Toyota, putting to rest circulating rumors about team owner Gene Haas’s interest in exiting Formula 1. Komatsu emphasized that Haas is committed to the sport and actively exploring ways to improve team performance, despite speculation sparked by recent NASCAR downsizing.
“Gene’s not selling the team,” Komatsu confirmed. “He’s constantly focused on how we can improve, and he’s turned down several offers. The team is simply not for sale.”
Rumors about Haas’s future in F1 gained traction following Michael Andretti’s multiple unsuccessful attempts to purchase the team, and the recent news of Toyota’s return to Formula 1 as a technical partner only fueled speculation. With Toyota recently debuting its branding on Haas cars at the United States Grand Prix, many assumed this could signal Toyota’s desire to buy in. However, Komatsu clarified that Toyota’s involvement is strictly technical, providing services like design and manufacturing support rather than full engine supply or team ownership.
This technical collaboration does not mean Toyota is reviving its own F1 team, which last raced in 2009. Instead, Toyota’s support will enhance Haas’s capabilities in areas where the team lacks Ferrari’s direct assistance, as Ferrari remains the primary supplier of power units, gearboxes, and other components under an agreement extended through 2028. Komatsu explained, “Ferrari and Dallara have been exceptional partners. Ferrari covers key components like the power unit, gearbox, and suspension, while Toyota’s focus is in areas Ferrari doesn’t support, giving us a better understanding and improving our competitiveness.”
Since Haas’s F1 debut in 2016, its strategy has revolved around partnerships with top-tier suppliers to remain cost-effective. Haas’s continued collaboration with Ferrari, including basing its design office in Maranello, Italy, and leveraging Dallara’s chassis expertise, has been integral to the team’s structure.
For now, Haas remains firmly on the grid with its unique collaborative approach, Toyota on board as a technical partner, and no plans for a team ownership change.
