Toyota TS030 Hybrid in testing (Photo Credit: Toyota)
Toyota Racing has today announced an expansion to its planned program by entering the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC).
In its debut year with the TS030 Hybrid Le Mans Prototype the squad had planned a limited schedule. However, citing sudden changes in the championship – which will have to withstand the shock cessation of Peugeot Sport's works program – Toyota will now make their race debut at Spa-Francorchamps in May. They will not race at the 12 Hours of Sebring – the opening round of the WEC in March.
Team president Yoshiaki Kinoshita said; “the circumstances for the championship changed suddenly in recent weeks and Toyota Racing considers it important to work together with the FIA and ACO to establish a successful future for endurance racing. We have done everything we can to show our support and we look forward to an exciting season, including the opportunity to race two cars at Le Mans.”
They have also confirmed a two car entry for the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June, with the line-up of Alex Wurz, Nicolas Lapierre and Kazuki Nakajima piloting the lead car. The drivers for the second car will be confirmed shortly, though Hiroaki Ishiura was nominated as lead driver on the entry list of Le Mans, also announced today.
