Toyota 2009
It has been confirmed that the Toyota team are leaving Formula One with immediate effect due to the economic crisis and after failing to win a race since 2002.
A statement from the manufacturer read;
“TMC, which had viewed its participation in F1 as contributing to the prosperity of automotive culture, remained dedicated to competing at the pinnacle of motor sports, even in the face of the abrupt economic changes that started last year. However, when considering TMC’s motor-sports activities next year and beyond from a comprehensive midterm viewpoint reflecting the current severe economic realities, TMC decided to withdraw from F1.
TMC leaves F1 having compiled 13 podium and 87 point finishes over eight challenging seasons since 2002 with Panasonic Toyota Racing, a full-constructor team. It views its time in F1—in which teams put forth their best efforts to fiercely compete at racing’s highest level—as an irreplaceable experience that provided an opportunity to develop both human resources and its R&D operations. TMC expresses its deepest appreciation to its F1 fans and others for their warm support.
TMC also wants to express its heartfelt gratitude to all Panasonic Toyota Racing drivers to date and to all Toyota Motorsport GmbH employees who have helped make the team’s achievements possible. TMC intends to do its best to find a solution for those parties who will be affected by any inconvenience this decision may cause.”
With the withdrawal of Honda early in the season followed by BMW, the tyre manufacturer Bridgestone and now Toyota, only three main manufacturers remain on the grid for the 2010 season, Ferrari, McLaren and Renault.
The end of the Toyota team could now pave the way for the return of the Sauber team, backed by Swiss-based Qadbak Investments, who have been on standby as the fourteenth team.
0 comments so far
There are no comments for this post yet. Why not be the first by filling out the form below.