It was recently reported that Toyota would be making a comeback in Formula 1. It was first heard back in July, and it was said that it would partner up with Haas. The rumor stayed silent until now.
That rumor has now been confirmed by the official announcement. Toyota and Haas have signed a technical partnership deal for a multi-year agreement. With that, Haas will gain access to Toyota's facilities and engineering knowhow in the coming seasons.
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“I’m hugely excited that MoneyGram Haas F1 Team and Toyota Gazoo Racing have come together to enter into this technical partnership,” said Haas boss Ayao Komatsu. Ayao Komatsu, team principal of the Haas F1 team.
Now, this doesn't mean that Haas F1 cars will use Toyota engines immediately. The partnership was made in cooperation with Ferrari. The Italian automaker will continue to supply engines for Haas even as the team receives assistance from Toyota. Haas' statement also mentioned that it will keep using Ferrari engines in the near future.
So, what can we expect from Toyota? The Japanese automaker will have a hand in producing chassis components, as well as access to wind tunnel testing and other facilites. As for supplying powertrains, that's still up in the air.
It has been 15 years since Toyota last competed in Formula 1. The program ran from 2002 to 2009, bagging several podium finished but never the win. Both Haas and Toyota are pinning their hopes on that elusive first victory with this partnership.
