Hoping for dry conditions where we can demonstrate our best performance

The ideal situation would be to have clear weather during race week. But there are occasional typhoons like the one we experienced two years ago, so we have to be prepared for any circumstances. The Hungarian GP was the first race this year where we experienced rain, and as I look back, I think we ran a poor race. However, we are prepared to prevent the same mistakes from happening, even under similar rainy conditions. We have been able to pinpoint where we went wrong before, and we have taken all the necessary corrective measures. We plan on being ready, no matter when or how much rain falls.

But it would be ideal if we had clear conditions for the race. With good weather, we will be able to show everyone the top performance that our cars are capable of.

Committed to attack in our home country race; aiming for top results

Compared to other circuits, the track at the Suzuka Circuit has somewhat better grip. This also means that tire wear is more severe, with most teams selecting a harder compound. Even so, we plan on making the most aggressive selection we can under the conditions given.

A two-stop strategy is the straightforward approach here. Even taking an aggressive approach, deciding whether to take a three-stop strategy is a completely separate issue. We plan on carefully considering the risks and the potential result, willing to take a slightly greater risk in our attack depending on the foreseeable circumstances.

At last year's Japanese Grand Prix, the rain during qualifying helped Ralf win pole position. We anticipated that the first few laps after the start would be the key that determined how far we would be able to outdistance our competition. Unfortunately, the safety car came out, spoiling our plans. This year, more than going for pole position at all costs, we want to have both cars secure top positions in qualifying, allowing us to start from the front, and drive an aggressive race.

We are still not in a position where we can pull off "grand champion" level sumo.So if we seriously look for good result, we have to go racing rather aggressively in spite of more risks.
Japan is the Panasonic Toyota Racing team's home country, so we all want to make a strong showing. Honestly speaking, I want to win. I hope you all come out to the circuit and cheer us on.