Toyota returns to F1 as technical partner of Haas

For the first time since 2009, the Toyota name is returning to Formula One, and with immediate effect.

That’s right. After spending eight seasons in F1 as a full works team and an engine supplier, Toyota is returning to Formula One with the Haas F1 Team as a technical partner on a multi-year agreement.

That means Haas will continue to use Ferrari power units, but Toyota Gazoo Racing will be involved in the design, technical, and manufacturing aspects of the Haas Formula One Team.

While exact details were not specified, this could mean Haas could utilize Toyota Gazoo Racing’s state-of-the-art engineering center at Cologne, Germany – the former headquarters of the Panasonic Toyota Formula One Team that raced from 2002 to 2009. Today, that HQ is being used as the HQ for TGR’s Le Mans team, as well as being part of their WRC operations.

On the other hand, Haas in exchange will share other technical expertise and commercial benefits of TGR returning to F1.

Starting at next weekend’s United States Grand Prix in Austin, the Toyota Gazoo Racing branding will be present on the Haas F1 cars, along with the team gear that drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Kevin Magnussen will wear.

This partnership will give Toyota Gazoo Racing valuable knowledge and skills in modern-day F1, where hybrid engines are very much in the play. With Toyota investing in hybrid technology, is this the first step that Toyota is taking ahead of a potential return as a manufacturer? Let’s wait and see.