When did Toyota leave the WRC?
Toyota, the renowned Japanese automaker, announced its withdrawal from the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2021, marking the end of an era for the brand's participation in the prestigious motorsport series.
Toyota's Storied History in the WRC
Toyota has a long and successful history in the WRC, having first entered the championship in 1973. The company's rally cars, such as the iconic Celica and Corolla models, have won numerous titles over the years, including the Manufacturers' Championship in 1993, 1994, and 1999. Toyota's return to the WRC in 2017, after a 17-year absence, was met with great enthusiasm from fans and the motorsport community.
Reasons for Toyota's Withdrawal
Toyota's decision to leave the WRC was primarily driven by the company's strategic shift towards electrification and sustainability. The automaker has been focusing its resources on the development of hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as other technologies that support its environmental goals.
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the global economy played a role in Toyota's decision. The company, like many others, has had to reevaluate its priorities and allocate resources accordingly.
The Future of Toyota in Motorsports
Despite its withdrawal from the WRC, Toyota has not completely abandoned its motorsport activities. The company continues to participate in other racing series, such as the FIA World Endurance Championship and the Dakar Rally, where it has found success with its hybrid-powered vehicles.
Toyota's focus on electrification and sustainability is likely to shape its future motorsport involvement, as the company seeks to showcase its technological advancements and commitment to environmental responsibility.
Conclusion
Toyota's departure from the WRC marks the end of an era for the brand's participation in the iconic rally championship. However, the company's strategic shift towards electrification and sustainability suggests that its motorsport involvement will continue to evolve, with a focus on showcasing its technological capabilities and environmental credentials.
Why is Honda no longer in F1?
In October 2020, Honda announced they would withdraw from Formula One at the end of the 2021 season, citing their need to focus resources on next-generation road vehicle technologies to make necessary strides towards carbon neutrality.
Why did Toyota leave the F1?
Ultimately it was down to management problems. Toyota Japan wanted control of the F1 team, and would not allow team managers in Germany to make the big decision without their input. This meant that by the time critical decisions were made, it was too late.
Will Toyota rejoin the F1?
Saajan Jogia | Jan 11, 2025. Toyota Gazoo Racing's director of global motorsport, Masaya Kaji has confirmed that the automaker could return to Formula 1 in the future and it is "gradually moving in that direction.” Toyota parted ways with the premier class of motorsport after eight seasons in 2009.
When did Mitsubishi quit the WRC?
Mitsubishi Motors withdrew from the WRC after the 2005 season and from the Dakar Rally after 2009, then returned to the world of competitive auto racing in 2012.
When did Toyota leave IndyCar?
Toyota still remained in the IndyCar Series as only a title sponsor for the Long Beach Grand Prix from 2009 until 2018 until it was replaced by Acura as official title sponsor of Long Beach Grand Prix from 2019 onwards.
When did Toyota get banned from WRC?
1995
During the 1995 World Rally Championship season, Toyota was caught using illegal turbo restrictor bypasses at the Rally Catalunya and were given a one-year ban by the FIA.
Why is VW no longer in WRC?
The move away from the WRC is apparently to allow Volkswagen to focus on “new technologies and customer sport”. “Of course, we regret the departure from the WRC very much,” said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Sven Smeets. “This was the most successful chapter in the Volkswagen brand's motorsport history.
Why is Subaru no longer in WRC?
Subaru pulled out of the WRC back in 2008 because of the global financial crisis, after decades of competing and bagging multiple championships.
When did Toyota start racing in NASCAR?
In 2007 when Japanese manufacturer Toyota joined, it became the first new manufacturer since 1971. Chrysler's Dodge brand returned after a 15-year hiatus in 2001, but departed after 2012, leaving just Chevrolet, Ford and Toyota.
Why was Subaru banned from WRC?
The team withdrew from WRC competition at the end of the 2008 season due to widespread economic downturn.
