Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team
The Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team (TGR WRT) is a prominent competitor in the World Rally Championship (WRC), representing the renowned automobile manufacturer Toyota. The team is based in Finland and operates under the leadership of the former WRC driver Jari-Matti Latvala. As of 2023, the team boasts a lineup of talented drivers, including reigning champion Kalle Rovanperä, alongside Elfyn Evans, Takamoto Katsuta, and the legendary Sébastien Ogier.
Formation and Achievements
The Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team is an integral part of Toyota Gazoo Racing Europe, a separate operational unit from the Toyota Gazoo Racing team that competes in the World Endurance Championship. Announced in January 2015, the team's re-entry into the World Rally Championship in 2017 marked a significant milestone for Toyota, following a hiatus since 1999.
The team's notable achievements include clinching the championship for manufacturers in 2018, which was Toyota's first in nearly two decades. Following this success, TGR WRT continued to dominate the WRC, securing additional manufacturer titles in 2021 and 2022. The team has also consistently delivered championship titles for both drivers and co-drivers from 2019 to 2023.
Vehicle Development
Central to the team's success is the development of its competition vehicles. The Toyota Yaris WRC, designed specifically by the Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT, serves as the cornerstone for the team's participation in the WRC. This World Rally Car is based on the Vitz platform and has been instrumental in propelling the team to victory in numerous rallies.
Another significant model is the Toyota GR Yaris, which was developed with assistance from Toyota's Gazoo Racing division. This three-door hatchback is designed to meet the stringent homologation requirements of the World Rally Championship.
Team Dynamics
The Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team is renowned for its commitment to high-performance development and competition. This commitment is evident in the team's rigorous testing and development processes, which are aimed at achieving excellence in rally competition. The team operates with a clear focus on innovation and continuous improvement, leveraging cutting-edge technology and engineering expertise to enhance its vehicles and strategies.