Remember Toyota’s Formula 1 efforts back in the day? If you don’t, you’re either too young or it just didn’t leave an impression with you.
The world’s biggest automaker competed in the top open wheel class in 2002 and exited the sport in 2009. In those eight seasons, there were a couple of bright spots, but the team never bagged a win.
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It has been 15 years since we last saw a Toyota on the Formula 1 grid. But reports have surfaced that the Japanese automaker will return by 2026. That’s according to motorsport site RacingNews365 and Hungarian motorsport site, Formula. If true, it will be just in time for the new regulations to kick in.
That said, Toyota won’t go at it alone, suggest the reports. For its ‘second attempt’ the automaker is said to be in talks with American Formula 1 team, Haas. A potential partnership and engine supplier deal is reportedly ongoing.
Racing365 also claims that Toyota will have a hand in producing chassis components for Haas if the deal pushes through. Not only that, the collaboration will also allow Haas access to Toyota’s wind tunnel and other motorsport related facilities. With its current successes in other disciplines, Toyota could be Haas’ key for its elusive first victory. At the same time, Haas could be Toyota's vessel towards a full F1 comeback.
It will be interesting to see how it all pans out. The 2026 season brings a whole host of rule and technical changes that could potentially shake up the field. On top of that, you have teams switching engine suppliers, and the likes of Audi and Ford entering the grid.
