Toyota could make its return to Formula 1 by 2026
Toyota, the Japanese automotive giant, is considering a return to Formula 1 in partnership with the American team Haas. This collaboration could mark a new era of innovation in motorsports and even help the former team regain a significant place on the track after its departure 15 years ago.
In the year 2009, Toyota decided to leave Formula 1, ending its long-standing project in motorsport. With rumors already surfacing in 2023, it is now fifteen years later that the Japanese manufacturer is actually considering a return to Formula 1 in the years to come.
A piece of news that could delight many fans, even if the old team is considering a new role in the sport, a process that should take some time to implement.
A collaboration with Haas
According to information from RacingNews365, Toyota has started discussions with the Haas F1 team to explore a potential partnership starting in 2025. Initially, this collaboration could take the form of a sponsorship agreement, similar to the one Alfa Romeo established with Sauber. From 2025, Toyota could join forces with Haas to manufacture certain parts of the car, while continuing to work with Dallara, which should also be involved in the project.
For the moment, Toyota does not plan to provide engines in the near future, but the Japanese manufacturer wants to work with Haas on producing chassis for 2026. This project could include the use of Toyota’s wind tunnel in Cologne, a facility that dates back to their former participation in Formula 1.
Haas’s performances on the track have been remarkable this season, but the team is also looking to make a significant impact off the track. A collaboration with Toyota would offer Haas an opportunity for growth and improvement that would open the doors to international markets. With Toyota by their side, Haas could embark on more ambitious projects than what they are currently capable of. It would also be the perfect opportunity to combine the expertise of Toyota and Dallara.
However, before this return becomes official, Haas and Toyota must finalize their agreement which seems to be well advanced already.
Other partners in Formula 1
Toyota does not plan to stop at its discussions with the American team for its return to motorsport. In addition to Haas, Toyota plans to sponsor other teams on which it has not yet communicated. But it is through their first collaboration that the Japanese team hopes to gradually regain its place in the world of Formula 1. And despite their lack of interest in building an engine at the moment, this possibility cannot be ruled out in the long term.
The return of Toyota to F1 would bring many changes to the sport. In addition to Honda, which already provides engines, Toyota’s presence on the grid would strengthen F1’s position in Japan, demonstrating the international reach of the discipline. If negotiations are successful, the duo formed by Gene Haas, team owner, and Ayao Komatsu, Japanese team principal, could become very influential in Formula 1.
The potential return of Toyota to Formula 1 could offer the American team new benefits for performance improvement. This partnership with Haas could begin as early as 2026, or even 2025 depending on the team’s conditions, marking the start of a new era for both parties. It’s worth noting that Toyota already has influence in motorsport, as with their partnership with the Gazoo Racing team in Endurance, they managed to achieve second place in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.