McLaren is eager to strengthen its existing relationship with Toyota.
McLaren and Toyota Collaborate on 'Ideas Exchange' Program
The McLaren F1 team is reportedly collaborating on an 'ideas exchange' program with the automotive giant Toyota.
McLaren Ends Use of Toyota's Wind Tunnel Facilities
McLaren recently concluded a deal to stop using Toyota's aging wind tunnel facilities in Cologne and instead opted for its newly completed facility in Woking.
Toyota Driver Ryo Hirakawa Joins McLaren
As part of the collaboration, Toyota factory driver Ryo Hirakawa has been added to McLaren's roster of reserve drivers for 2024. The deal also includes Hirakawa becoming McLaren's simulator driver and participating in real-world tests on a 2021 car.
Toyota Chairman's Presence at Japanese Grand Prix Sparks Speculation
The presence of Toyota's chairman, Akio Toyoda, at the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka as part of a delegation hosted by McLaren has led to speculation about Toyota's role in McLaren's future plans.
Toyota's History in Formula 1
Toyota participated in Formula 1 as a manufacturer in 139 races from 2002 until 2009, with drivers including Mika Salo, Alan McNish, Olivier Panis, Ralf Schumacher, Jarno Trulli, and Timo Glock.
Toyota's Shift to Endurance Sportscar Racing
After leaving Formula 1, Toyota transitioned to endurance sportscar racing, achieving multiple wins in the top LMP1 class of the Le Mans 24 Hours event since 2012. Ryo Hirakawa was part of their winning driver lineup in 2022.
Rumors of Toyota's Return to Formula 1
There are ongoing rumors that Toyota is considering a return to Formula 1, potentially as an engine partner to an existing team. This speculation follows changes in engine regulations set to be introduced in 2026, which have already enticed Toyota's arch-rival, Audi, back to the sport.
McLaren's Strategy and Toyota's Involvement
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella stated that the decision to include Ryo Hirakawa is part of a 'bigger picture' strategy for Toyota. This move aligns with McLaren's driver development program and reflects their interest in an exchange of ideas related to performance and driver development with Toyota.
Toyota Advisor's Perspective
Kazuki Nakajima, Toyota Gazoo Racing advisor, clarified that the collaboration with Hirakawa does not signify Toyota's immediate return to Formula 1. He emphasized that the current deal is focused on supporting a driver's dream but left the door open for possibilities in the future, stating, "For the future, we never know."
>>> Read more: New Zealand's Rodin Discovers It Submitted An Application For An F1 Entry
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