Toyota is making a somewhat unexpected return to Formula 1, albeit indirectly. The recent Japanese Grand Prix saw McLaren announce the signing of Ryo Hirakawa as a reserve driver. Hirakawa, who is backed by Toyota and currently competes in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) with Toyota’s GR010 Hybrid LMH, will take on the reserve role at McLaren starting in 2024.
In the 2022 season of the WEC, Hirakawa notched an impressive overall victory in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans and clinched the championship title. His experience and success in endurance racing make him an ideal candidate for a reserve position in Formula 1.
As a reserve driver, Hirakawa will step in and replace one of McLaren’s regular F1 drivers if they are unable to race. To ensure familiarity with the team’s F1 cars and technical systems, reserve drivers often participate in regular testing and contribute to simulator development. This allows them to be fully prepared and ready for any potential race opportunity that may arise.
Toyota has had a previous stint in Formula 1, having competed from 2002 to 2009. Despite having one of the largest budgets in the sport, the company failed to achieve significant success during its F1 endeavor. The global financial crisis ultimately led to Toyota’s withdrawal from the competition.
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The current Chairman of Toyota, Akio Toyoda, has been consistent in his stance that the company is unlikely to return to Formula 1. Toyoda believes that F1 is too distant from the development of Toyota’s production models and therefore does not align with the company’s core objectives.
However, Toyoda’s decision to support Hirakawa’s bid for a reserve role at McLaren shows his dedication to ensuring Toyota drivers have the opportunity to participate in Formula 1. Addressing reporters during the Japanese Grand Prix, Toyoda explained, “As president of the company, I was the one who quit F1. Since then, I have been involved in racing in various ways, and although none of the drivers say as much to me, I always sensed their desire to be called the best in the world, to drive the fastest cars in the world, and to develop themselves through that experience.”
Toyoda’s involvement in motorsport extends beyond Toyota’s participation in Formula 1. Under his leadership, the company has been actively engaged in other racing disciplines such as the WEC, Dakar Rally, and Super GT. These endeavors allow Toyota to showcase its engineering prowess and develop technologies that can be utilized in future road car models.
The collaboration between Toyota-backed driver Ryo Hirakawa and McLaren provides an exciting opportunity for both parties. While Toyota may not be returning to Formula 1 as a direct participant, supporting Hirakawa’s venture allows the company to maintain a connection to the sport and its drivers.
For Hirakawa, the chance to operate as a reserve driver at McLaren alongside his commitments in the WEC is an affirmation of his talent and potential. It opens doors for him to further growth and development as a driver, bringing him closer to his aspirations of being recognized as one of the best in the world.
In conclusion, Toyota’s indirect return to Formula 1 through the partnership with McLaren highlights the company’s dedication to supporting its drivers and their ambitions. While an official comeback to the sport may be unlikely, Toyota remains actively involved in other racing disciplines, demonstrating its commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology and performance. Through collaborations like the one with Ryo Hirakawa, the company continues to contribute to the world of motorsport and cultivate talented drivers.
