Rumors have finally turned into reality: Haas F1 and Toyota Gazoo Racing have teamed up in a technical partnership. This collaboration seems like a win-win, as Haas gains access to Toyota’s vast resources, while Toyota gets its name back into the top motorsport scene.
For quite some time, whispers floated around about Haas and Toyota joining forces. Many doubted it would happen because Toyota had no plans to return after their last F1 stint didn’t go well. Last spring, Rob Leupen from Toyota Racing talked about the possibility of their name coming back to Formula 1.
He mentioned, “What did Formula 1 bring Toyota at the time, apart from a nice factory? A lot of money went into making Toyota’s name better known. I think in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), we can show more about what Toyota does and what the brand stands for.”
Surprise Return for Toyota
Despite earlier doubts, Toyota is stepping back into Formula 1—not with engines but by sharing skills and resources through a new multi-year deal. They’ll offer design and production help through Toyota Gazoo Racing. Details will emerge later, but both sides seem ready to benefit.
With Ford entering F1 in 2026 and Cadillac following in 2028, Toyota was one of the few big names missing from Formula 1. WEC is great and growing, but it’s not quite F1. Fans might think this move is smart for marketing alone.
Toyota doesn’t need to spend big on an F1 team or engine like Ford with Red Bull Racing. Yet, they get maximum exposure without the hefty price tag.
Haas Finds a Strong Ally
Haas needs any help it can get in the fierce fight against other teams at the back of the grid. Sauber is transforming into Audi, Williams is investing heavily with hopes pinned on drivers Albon-Sainz, and Alpine looks forward to working with Mercedes. Haas had to act fast to avoid being last in the Constructors’ Championship.
Though Toyota hasn’t tasted much success in F1 recently, they’ve shown they can win titles in WEC with Gazoo Racing. Their factory in Cologne boasts top-notch facilities with both European and Japanese staff working together.
Catching up with giants like Red Bull or Ferrari might be tough for Haas and Toyota, but there’s undeniable potential here.
Do you think this partnership will shake things up on the track?
