Toyota Open to F1 Engines, Seeks Knowledge on 2026 Rules

Toyota hints at future F1 engine involvement, with a focus on learning from upcoming 2026 regulations before taking the next step.

Toyota has not ruled out potentially expanding its new Formula 1 involvement beyond a simple technical partnership with Haas F1.

The Japanese manufacturer, through its Toyota Gazoo Racing division, has started assisting Haas, which is powered by Ferrari, with parts production, technical resources, and simulation.

However, Masaya Kaji, director of Toyota Gazoo, says the company is also interested in developing F1 engines.

“Morizo told us, ‘It’s been 15 years since we were last in F1, so we need to relearn.’ That’s what we’ll start doing with Haas,” said Kaji, referring to Toyota President Akio Toyoda, also known as “Morizo.”

“I think we need to understand things a bit better and see it as the next step.”

It’s possible that Formula 1 will add a twelfth team to the grid in the coming years—especially if it’s Toyota. The Japanese manufacturer could also become an engine supplier.

The technical regulations will change drastically for 2026, especially with the power unit rules that significantly increase the electric component of the engine.

When asked if Toyota was interested in these new regulations, Kaji admitted, “Of course, I’m looking at everything. I think it will be a system that’s easier to use in different ways than it is now.”

For now, however, Toyota is excluded from the detailed discussions and meetings with F1, the FIA, and other engine manufacturers regarding the 2026 power units.

“I think it would be good to attend the meetings to learn, but to participate, you need to be registered as a constructor with F1. That’s a step we haven’t taken yet, as you know. We’ll see what happens.”