[blackwasp]

Japanese carmaker Toyota has confirmed its entry in the top LMP1 category of the world endurance championship for the 2018-2019 season. The confirmation comes after the rules for the 2018-2019 season were published.

Toyota had an uncertain future after rival and current champion Porsche left at the end of the 2017 season. This means that Toyota is the only major manufacturer to run a works team next season. The upcoming season will last 14 months and will include two 24-hour races in June 2018 and 2019.

F1 champion Fernando Alonso stands to benefit from this move. The Spaniard has earlier expressed his desire to achieve the 'Triple Crown' in motorsport - it includes winning the Monaco GP, Indianapolis 500 and 24 hours of Le Mans. The F1 driver was earlier spotted testing with Toyota in Bahrain. Alonso had also competed in the Indianapolis 500 this year, however he had to retire due to engine failure. Only one driver, Graham Hill of Britain has managed to achieve this feat.

The Japanese team will be entering with the TS050 Hybrid racecars. Toyota's driver line-up for the season will be announced in early 2018. Currently only one Japanese manufacturer has won the Le Mans - Mazda in the 1991 season.



Link to the Team-BHP News