Akio Toyoda comment for the 1000 Miles of Sebring

2023.03.18(Sat)

A new season has started with new rivals.

I would like to say "congratulations" and "thank you" to all the drivers and team members who finished this important first round with a one-two finish.

I am particularly happy that car #7 won the race and got off to a good start after they had so many frustrations last season. But that is not the only reason.

Car #7 had some struggles as well during this race week.

When they started running, they fought to improve their lap times.
The drivers and mechanics worked together to pinpoint the issues and make improvements.

And when everything was going well, at the end of practice on Thursday, José had an accident...
The mechanics desperately repaired the car. The other drivers continued to talk compassionately with José so that he could regain his confidence and drive strongly in the race.

Even if the car changes and the number of rivals increases, I once again feel that racing is a team effort.
Since Kamui became Team Principal, the power of the team has definitely grown stronger.

As a driver, Kamui contributes to victory as a driver, and as Team Principal he keeps communication with the members and keeps the team together. So I would like to thank Kamui for both his roles.
Kamui, thank you very much.

I think our rivals will continue to refine their cars and become faster.
Let's keep fighting to make the GR010 HYBRID an "ever-better car"!

Akio Toyoda
Team Founder, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing.