TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Secures Top Six Finish at Qatar 1812km Race

In the 2025 FIA WEC Qatar 1812km race, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing secured a top-six finish, with the #8 and #7 GR010 HYBRIDs coming in fifth and sixth, respectively. The team demonstrated solid teamwork and strategy despite facing challenges. The results positioned the team third in the manufacturers’ rankings, looking forward to the 6 Hours of Imola to enhance their title challenge.

In the opening round of the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), TOYOTA GAZOO Racing achieved a commendable top-six finish during the dramatic Qatar 1812km race held at the Lusail International Circuit. The team’s performance is crucial in their pursuit to maintain the manufacturers’ World Championship and reclaim the drivers’ title, along with their aim to secure another victory at Le Mans. With effective collaboration from drivers, engineers, and mechanics, both cars finished strongly, demonstrating experienced teamwork and resilience.

The 8 GR010 HYBRID, driven by Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, and Ryo Hirakawa, successfully rebounded from a challenging qualifying session to secure fifth place. Meanwhile, the 7 GR010 HYBRID team comprising Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi, and Nyck de Vries finished sixth. Both teams made notable progress from their starting positions, strategically navigating the race despite a high-speed spin and safety car incidents, ultimately concluding the race positively.

During the race, strategic driving and tire management played vital roles. As the evening progressed, Brendon Hartley and Kamui Kobayashi battled fiercely in the top positions, capitalizing on their competitors’ misfortunes. The race featured intense competition culminating in a final pit stop that saw Sébastien Buemi advance to fifth before both GR010 HYBRIDs crossed the finish line concurrently, securing valuable championship points amidst a strong Ferrari performance.

Post-race reflections from the drivers emphasized a strong team effort and valued lessons learned. Team principal and driver Kamui Kobayashi recognized the challenge posed by Ferrari’s strong performance while acknowledging the absence of errors that could have derailed their race. Sébastien Buemi expressed satisfaction with the team’s execution, highlighting the absence of penalties and mistakes, while Brendon Hartley mentioned the well-executed race strategy despite the lack of speed.

Overall, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing concludes the Qatar 1812km race third in the manufacturers’ standings, eyeing improvements for the upcoming 6 Hours of Imola scheduled for April 20. The team is eager to enhance their performance and push hard for the podium in future races as they adapt and learn from this season’s opening challenge.

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing displayed commendable skill during the Qatar 1812km race, achieving a top-six finish with both vehicles. The team effectively utilized their experience and teamwork, securing valuable championship points with no major mistakes. As they head towards the next event, the 6 Hours of Imola, they remain determined to improve and perform at the forefront of the standings, continuing their quest for championship titles.

Original Source: newsroom.toyota.eu