Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda Makes Surprise Appearance at McLaren’s F1 Paddock
During the 2023 Japanese Grand Prix, Toyota Chairman Akio “Morizo” Toyoda made an unexpected visit to McLaren’s hospitality area, creating a buzz in the paddock. Accompanied by Ryo Hirakawa, who was recently announced as McLaren’s test driver, Toyoda participated in interviews with local media, fueling speculation about Toyota’s potential return to Formula 1.
Could Toyota’s return to F1 be on the horizon? Speculation is rife that McLaren might serve as Toyota’s entry point into F1 under the new 2026 power unit regulations. The signing of Hirakawa could mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Toyota in motorsport’s premier category.
Ryo Hirakawa Joins McLaren as Test Driver
On September 22, 2023, McLaren F1 announced that Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa would join their driver development program and take on the role of reserve driver in 2024.
Hirakawa, 29, is set to accumulate significant testing mileage in the 2021-spec McLaren MCL35M, while also contributing to simulator work at McLaren’s Technology Centre in the UK. These duties will run parallel to his commitments with Toyota.
“I’m delighted to join McLaren as a reserve driver. I’ve already met the team and experienced the simulator, so I’m ready to get started,” said Hirakawa.
Kazuki Nakajima Clarifies: “No Plans for F1 Return”
Kazuki Nakajima, Toyota’s Motorsport Senior Executive Advisor, addressed rumors during a press conference:
“Toyota has no plans to return to F1. This contract is solely focused on supporting the driver and his dreams.”
Despite the clarification, the speculation around Toyota’s motorsport future remains.
Toyota and McLaren’s Longstanding Relationship
Toyota and McLaren have enjoyed a close partnership since 2010, collaborating on wind tunnel usage in Cologne. This agreement ended in mid-2023 when McLaren’s in-house wind tunnel became operational.
The partnership extended beyond mere wind tunnel usage. Over the years, McLaren and Toyota have developed a strong technical relationship involving R&D, production capabilities, and independent data systems.
McLaren Group For Sale: A Possible Opportunity for Toyota?
In March 2024, reports surfaced that Bahrain’s Mumtalakat was considering selling its controlling stake in the McLaren Group. This follows McLaren’s financial struggles, including losses exceeding £349 million in 2022. The fund reportedly instructed JP Morgan to explore buyers with expertise in electric vehicles (EVs).
Given Toyota’s emphasis on motorsport and EV technology, acquiring McLaren could strategically align with its goals, filling the gap of a luxury sports car brand in its portfolio.
Toyota’s F1 History: Lessons from the Past
Toyota’s F1 journey began in 2002, marked by significant investment and cutting-edge facilities in Cologne, Germany. Despite achieving podiums, pole positions, and fastest laps, Toyota’s F1 team struggled to secure a championship.
Their best season came in 2005, finishing fourth in the Constructors’ Championship. However, the team withdrew in 2009, citing the global financial crisis and rising costs.
Toyota’s Possible F1 Comeback Through McLaren
The deep-rooted partnership between Toyota and McLaren makes a potential F1 return viable. Toyota could leverage its resources and technology to strengthen McLaren’s competitive edge, while McLaren offers decades of F1 expertise.
With drivers like Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri leading McLaren’s charge, and Ryo Hirakawa poised to contribute as reserve driver, this alliance could redefine Formula 1’s competitive landscape by 2026.