Toyota Considers Formula 1 Return in Partnership with Haas
Japanese automotive giant Toyota is contemplating a surprise return to Formula 1, potentially partnering with Haas, according to recent reports. Toyota previously operated its own Formula 1 works team in the early 2000s, debuting in 2002 and remaining in the sport until the 2009 season, when it exited amid the global financial crisis. Although the team scored five podiums in 2009, its most competitive season, it never managed to secure a Formula 1 win during its eight-year tenure.
However, after dominating other prestigious racing series, such as the FIA World Rally Championship and World Endurance Championship, Toyota might be preparing to make a comeback to the elite arena of Grand Prix single-seater racing with Haas. As reported by Formula Hu, Toyota could initiate its involvement with the Haas project as early as 2025 through a branding alliance, similar to the partnership between Alfa Romeo and Sauber.
Furthermore, Toyota might take over the construction of Haas’ Formula 1 machines from Italian chassis builder Dallara, relocating the operation to its Gazoo Racing headquarters in Cologne, Germany. A potential takeover of Haas is not entirely out of the question, although team owner Gene Haas has never publicly expressed a desire to sell his prized eponymous Formula 1 asset.
“Gene Haas has yet to reveal any intention to sell his F1 team, but the added investment from a brand alliance with Toyota would undoubtedly bolster Haas’ Formula 1 prospects.”
Despite officially leaving the sport in 2009, Toyota has maintained ties with Formula 1. Prior to the recent unveiling of its new wind tunnel, McLaren leased Toyota’s Cologne facility from 2010 onwards to enhance its aerodynamic development.
The Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) brand has made its way into junior formula this year, thanks to FIA Formula 2 rookie Ritomo Miyata. Miyata, a Toyota WEC junior driver, now races under the TGR banner for Rodin motorsport, following a successful 2023 campaign that saw him win both the Super Formula and Super GT titles in Japan.
Should Toyota decide to return to Formula 1, the Japanese manufacturer would join an impressive list of automotive brands committing to the series in recent times. For 2026 alone, Ford has partnered with Red Bull Powertrains, Audi will complete its takeover of Sauber, and Honda will form a works engine partnership with Aston Martin. Toyota’s reported interest aligns with recent rumors that Hyundai could be looking into a potential F1 effort, with Chinese marque Geely also attracted to the allure of Grand Prix racing. Moreover, General Motors’ interest via its proposed Cadillac entry with Andretti remains a high priority for the American manufacturer.
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