TOYOTA GAZOO Racing achieved a strong start to the 2025 FIA WEC season with both cars finishing in the top six at the Qatar 1812km race. The team demonstrated excellent collaboration and strategic driving to navigate challenges, leaving them positioned to improve in future races.
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing secured a commendable double points finish in the inaugural race of the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) at the Qatar 1812km, held at Lusail International Circuit. Both vehicles achieved top-six placements, demonstrating strong collaborative efforts from the drivers, engineers, and mechanics in their pursuit of title retention. Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, and Ryo Hirakawa finished fifth in the 8 GR010 HYBRID, while Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi, and Nyck de Vries claimed sixth in the 7 GR010 HYBRID.
The race commenced with TOYOTA’s representatives facing challenges during qualifying, commencing from seventh and 17th positions, respectively. However, the team skillfully ascended the ranks, entering the top six midway through the second hour. Despite a high-speed spin from Mike Conway, the team expertly navigated difficult circumstances, ultimately delivering a strong performance with strategic driving and timely pit stops.
As the race progressed, both cars displayed consistent pace, showcasing successful strategies implemented during varying safety car periods. Significant position changes occurred, with Sébastien and Brendon involved in intense battles for positioning. By the sixth hour, with advantageous circumstances, the 8 vehicle surged to third place while the 7 car maintained competitive positioning.
In a gripping finale, after a series of pit strategies, Sébastien and Kamui engaged in a fierce race for dominance. Eventually, they finished fifth and sixth, respectively, garnering valuable points despite Ferrari’s spectacular performance, finishing first to third. Following the race, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing stands third in the manufacturers’ standings, prepared to enhance their title pursuit as they look forward to the upcoming 6 Hours of Imola.
Kamui Kobayashi expressed gratitude towards Ferrari while indicating that the team performed well within their capabilities despite some performance shortfalls. Mike Conway noted satisfaction with the points earned, recognizing areas for improvement. Nyck de Vries emphasized the positive outcome amid pre-race challenges, while Sébastien Buemi praised the team’s faultless execution. Brendon Hartley remarked on the competitive nature of the race, reflecting pride in the team, despite unmet expectations. Lastly, Ryo Hirakawa expressed satisfaction with the team’s lack of errors, positioning them optimally moving forward.
In summary, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing delivered a noteworthy performance at the Qatar 1812km race, achieving critical points with fifth and sixth placements in an event marked by strategic driving and teamwork under challenging conditions. As the season progresses, the team aims to build on this foundation and enhance their competitiveness, particularly in upcoming events. Their preparedness and resilience hint at a promising pursuit of both the manufacturers’ and drivers’ championships.
Original Source: newsroom.toyota.eu
