Toyota to return to F1 in partnership with Haas



Japanese car company Toyota is returning to Formula 1 after a 15-year absence in a partnership with the US-based Haas team.

Toyota, which withdrew its own team from F1 at the end of 2009, has become Haas’ "technical partner".

A statement from Haas and Toyota said the two companies would "share expertise and knowledge, as well as resources".

Toyota would provide "design, technical and manufacturing services", it said, while Haas will give "technical expertise and commercial benefits".

There will be Toyota branding on the Haas cars starting at the United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, from 18-20 October.

Haas will continue to use Ferrari power-units, having earlier this year extended their contract with the Italian team until 2028.

Tomoya Takahashi - president of Toyota’s racing arm, known as Gazoo - said the company aimed to "cultivate drivers, engineers, and mechanics" as part of the arrangement.

Toyota has in recent years found itself missing out on aspiring Japanese racing drivers and engineers to rival Honda because of Honda's presence in F1, a source with knowledge of the deal has told BBC Sport.

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