Toyota wants its own driver in F1. Team leader named a condition

Haas team boss Ayao Komatsu said he did not rule out the possibility of attracting a driver linked to Toyota in the future, but stressed that the main criterion will always be results, not financial support.

Earlier this year, Toyota announced that it would be the title sponsor of Haas starting from the 2026 season. This was the next step in the development of cooperation between the parties, which began with a technical partnership more than a year ago.

At the same time, Komatsu denied the assumption that Toyota’s increased role was the beginning of a full takeover of the team. According to him, cooperation focuses primarily on staff development and exchange of experience.

When asked whether Toyota constantly raises the issue of driver performance in Formula 1, Komatsu answered in the affirmative.

“Yes, of course. One of Toyota’s many goals is to develop people, and pilots are part of that process,” he said.

Toyota has an extensive driver training program in various series, particularly the World Endurance Championship and Japanese Super Formula. However, Komatsu stressed that Haas was not ready to sacrifice athletic performance for the sake of partnership interests.

“What is important is speed and results. Everyone who gets behind the wheel of our car must be the best choice in terms of performance,” emphasized the team leader.