Toyota does not plan to sell its team

The presence of Sauber as the 13th team in 2010 suggested that Toyota Panasonic has given up on entering F1 and has no intention of selling its team. However, there are whispers of discussions with new teams about taking over the design tools.

The Japanese manufacturer announced last month that it is leaving F1 at the end of the season. In recent days, rumors have circulated about a sale of its entry rights to avoid any sanctions. However, high-ranking sources at the Toyota factory have refuted any discussion that the manufacturer is seeking to get directly involved in the selection process.

The source from Toyota states: « We have returned to talk about our entry into the FIA, and we have no intention of influencing or interfering in the distribution process. This is a matter that the Federation handles exclusively. We are discussing an arrangement with Bernie Ecclestone on what is acceptable for all parties. »

Even though Toyota could face a significant fine for withdrawing from F1 after signing the Concorde Agreement, which theoretically committed them until 2012, many wonder how such a penalty could be enforced since the team would no longer be competing.

The source also confirmed that discussions were underway with new teams regarding the sale of its design tool. Leasing or perhaps elements from the former Toyota team, such as engines, seem to be involved.

« We offered our 2010 car at a minimal price to some of the new entrants, but no one accepted, » said the source. « We approached Stefan GP, but its entry is far from assured. »

Interestingly, the team is also offering Kamui Kobayashi in the sale of their ‘package’. The Japanese driver made a strong impression during two races for the team at the end of the season: « We also requested that Kobayashi be part of the package, » concluded the source.